After honing her skills over several decades, Higham had a few tips for keen 500 players.
"Assess your hand properly," she said, "and don't be afraid to call or bid, especially if you have a long suit, a bower, or an ace.
"Keep an eye on the score."
Luck definitely came into it too, but so did skill and concentration.
Higham played for at least two hours, twice weekly. She said young people could do with putting down their iPhones and picking up a pack of playing cards.
"We've gone away from playing games at home with our kids. They're on their computers and their iPhones. I have nothing against that at all. I think that's great too, but they don't get to interact with their families or friends and play these games which are enjoyable, can help with your maths, and are social."