A 100-year life
British citizens who live to see their 100th birthdays receive a telegram from the monarch. More people than ever are living a 100-year life. In 1952, the Queen sent out just 255 centenary telegrams, but in 1999 she sent over 3500. A long life seems to run in the family - if your mother reaches 100 you are more likely to live to celebrate your 100th birthday too.
