EARLIER this year my mother-in-law discovered she had breast cancer.

While recovering from her mastectomy she contracted MRSA in the very same way her husband had previously died but, while the family worried, 75-year-old Betty made a grab for life.

Aided and abetted by Aunty Joan, her older sister Betty joined the local chapter of Hell’s Grannies terrorising bingo halls from Burnley to Blackburn.

Ten footloose octogenarians were more than a match for anyone.

When ordered to shut up in one Blackpool nightclub Aunty Joan said she was addressing her sister. 

When the rude gentleman grabbed her by the arm Betty and the battling grannies leapt into action swinging their handbags like whirling dervishes. I’d pay good money to see that CCTV footage.

Far from retiring to lick her wounds Betty’s been gadding about like Posh Spice ringing as much out of life as she possibly can.

None of us know how we would react in such dreadful circumstances. I only know what an inspiration Betty has been. 

If a 75-year-old lady can lose her husband, battle cancer, contract MRSA and come back fighting there’s hope for us all.

NB: Hell’s Grannies paid us a visit in August for tea and cakes. We’re still washing up and the cats never returned home.

The views expressed on this page are Vic Barlow’s and not necessarily those of the Express