APPEARANCES can be deceptive, and readers will agree that this is certainly the case for this Blackpool woman who, on Tuesday, celebrates her 15th birthday!

Jacqueline Dodgson, from Reads Avenue in Blackpool, was born on February 29 in the leap year of 1940, but the loophole in the traditional Gregorian calendar dictates that February 29 only occurs every four years and therefore people born on this day only have a birthday every four years.

So although Jacqueline has lived a full and varied life spanning six decades, technically she's not even old enough to buy a packet of cigarettes! She told The Citizen: "It feels a little strange to be celebrating my birthday to all intents and purposes as a teenager, even though I might not feel it!" She added how she was born and raised in Derby but fell in love with Blackpool after having numerous holidays in the resort while growing up.

Unfortunately her husband died three years ago. With no family left in Derby and having severe osteoporosis, Jacqueline had no reason to stay.

She said: "I have a very close friend here whom I met on one of my holidays and, after my husband died, he said, 'For goodness sake, move up here and let me look after you.'

"I already knew I loved the resort so my decision was made there and then and I will never leave Blackpool now."

She went on to say that her friend visits her at least once a day and helps with meals, cleaning and other household chores that prove difficult.

Despite her health problems though, Jacqueline is as sprightly and optimistic as if she really was 15, and puts this down to living by the sea.

"Some people say Blackpool is dirty and full of crime, but I love it! If I am to be honest, I think it's the sea air that is keeping me going!"

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.