Great gran Hilary Don-Fox turns 100 this month – but has only had 25 official birthdays…
The retired primary school teacher was on born on February 29, 1920 – a leap year day. That means her actual birthday only falls every four years.
Hilary is thought to be one of just five million leaplings worldwide. She will celebrate her centenary with a party at her care home.
Her grandaughter Amelia Ashton-Jones, 44, of the British Olympic Association, said: “Having a leap year birthday is very rare indeed.
"Reaching 100 takes it to another dimension. We just hope she stays in good health. It is going to be quite a party. She is very excited now.
“When we mention her age she says, ‘Am I really?’ We would be fascinated to learn how many others turn 100 on this leap year day.”
Hilary, who has seen 18 different Prime Ministers during her lifetime, will toast her birthday with two daughters, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren at her home in Gillingham, Dorset.
She was born at Harrow-on-the Hill in North London and trained to be a teacher at Wallop School in Weybridge, Surrey.
Hilary had worked on a farm during the Second World War.
Her dad was Sir Harry Trusted an Imperial Civil Service Judge who travelled the world giving advice on legal systems.
Amelia added: “Her family has defined her life. She has never complained, she has a ‘can do’ attitude, and is positive.”
The odds of being born on February 29 are believed to be one in 1,461.
Other famous leaplings include Godfather actor Alex Rocco, rapper Saul Williams, Get Shorty star Dennis Farina, composer Gioacchino Rossini, and jazz musician Jimmy Dorsey.
