A WILTON great grandmother who served in an anti-aircraft battery during the Second World War has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Molly Clarke was able to mark the milestone on December 29 with some of her family who were able to visit on the day, while the power of technology brought the rest of the family together to wish her many happy returns – including singing happy birthday.

She also had special cards from the Queen and Princess Anne.

“I had a wonderful day,” said Molly. “I’ve had a long life and a happy one.”

Molly was born in Salisbury before moving to Wilton.

She joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service in 1941. After training in Reading, Molly served in 495 Battery (Mixed Heavy) Air Defence Regiment Royal Artillery – the first to be formed - until she was demob in 1945.

Molly saw most of her action when posted in Lydd, playing a key role countering the threat of V-1 and V-2 missiles.

As part of her role she would track aircraft and send information to soldiers manning the artillery.

Molly says it was an experience she will never forget, adding: “I found it very interesting and loved every minute of it.”

After demobilisation in 1945 she married her husband Bombardier Jim Clarke, who was taken prisoner at Dunkirk and had been a prisoner of war in Poland for six years.

She was married to Jim, a former mayor of Wilton, for 63 years.

She has a son, three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.