PLUCKY Dorothy Hughes is to soon do something that for three centuries was almost unthinkable.

And, aged 85, she is relishing the challenge.

Mrs Hughes, from Kidlington, is to become one of the first women to join the ranks of the Chelsea Pensioners, the famous scarlet coated army veterans who live at London’s Royal Hospital.

Refreshingly honest, Mrs Hughes’ husband died 18 years ago, she has outlived many of her friends and realised her future could be lonely.

That was the inspiration for becoming a Chelsea Pensioner, the ranks of former British Army officers.

Any woman can become a Chelsea Pensioner, so long as they are over 65, free of a dependent and drawing an Army pension.

Charles II started building the Royal Hospital in 1682 with the express aim of looking after war veterans.

Having served as a gunner, operating heavy guns during the Bltiz, we think Dorothy will be just fine holding her own among the ranks of Pensioners.