I HEAR, frequently, of many old household gadgets that are still in use.

I have a Jones sewing machine, (bought on my marriage, in 1953, for £5). This has on its body As supplied to Her Majesty Queen Alexandra'.

Her reign was 1901-1907, so this machine must be 100 years old, at least.

I am no seamstress, but I still use this article to make curtains, and do basic clothes alterations and repairs.

With the exception of an occasional broken needle, it has never been serviced or needed repair. Is this a record?

Mrs AE Carr, Middleton St George, near Darlington.