A fun-loving 100-year-old who was born in the year that the Titanic sank celebrated her milestone birthday on Saturday.

Family and friends held a party for Mildred Hawkins, at the Longmead Social Centre, Epsom, which was attended by Councillor Jean Steer.

One of five children, she was born in a cottage in Dirdene Close, Epsom and has lived in the town throughout her whole life.

She had been engaged to be married to her childhood sweetheart but he was killed in the Second World War.

Then, aged 38, she met her husband at a bowls club and they had a daughter.

Although both have passed away, she has a granddaughter and two great granddaughters.

Mrs Hawkins moved to Norman Collier Court after he husband died and visits the Longmead Social Centre every day to socialise with friends, play bingo or have afternoon tea.

Thomas Mahon, 58, Mildred’s neighbour of six years, said she has always led an active life and has no plans to slow down now she has reached 100.

He said: "Mildred is a very sociable and independent lady who has a great sense of humour and is very fun, even at 100 years of age.

"She cooks all of her own meals at weekends and does all of her cleaning in her flat. She has only been to the doctor twice in the whole time I have known her - as a heart transplant patient, she puts me to shame.

"All the residents from Norman Collier Court wish her all the best and we, her family, and her big circle of friends, love her very much."