106 Years Young: A Life of Gold Leaf and Kings

Betty Wherry, a centenarian gilder, recently marked her 106th birthday, celebrating with friends at a care home in Nottinghamshire. Her career began as a 14-year-old apprentice at Royal Crown Derby in 1934, where she honed her skills in applying gold leaf.

During her 50-year tenure, Wherry contributed to significant royal events, gilding celebratory items for the coronations of both Edward VIII and George VI. Her distinctive mark of two small dots remains a testament to her craftsmanship on surviving pieces from the renowned porcelain manufacturer.

After a period during World War Two in aircraft manufacturing, Wherry returned to Royal Crown Derby in 1945 to establish a new training school for gilders. She later transitioned to an assistant museum curator role before retiring in 1984. Wherry attributes her fulfilling life and longevity to hard work.