A WELL-KNOWN and popular Stow resident celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends last weekend.

Edith Bennett, known as Nannie, celebrated the milestone occasion at Chamberlayne House in Stow-on-the-Wold on Saturday, October 11 and was presented with a congratulatory card from The Queen.

"She just loved it," said her friend Etta Howard. "Beaming smiles all the time. It was not a surprise but things that happened during it were. There were lots of cupcakes, sandwiches and lots of champagne."

Nannie was overjoyed to receive more than 100 cards from friends and well wishers, followed by a party attended by 60 people, including her great-great nephews. Many of the party guests were the babies that Nannie had once looked after during her long career as a children's nanny.

She had also worked during the Second World War as a land army girl and was presented with a medal five years ago for her service to the country.

Also at the party were many of Nannie's charges she had looked after throughout the years, who range from age 75-22. Her youngest charge Philip Howard, Etta's son, made a funny speech about Nannie on the day.

"It's funny, because we are all excited about the Duchess of Cambridge's new baby, but Nannie was once excited about the Queen being born," added Etta. "She is such a huge character. Everyone in Stow knows her from her walking about on her walking frame. She doesn't forget anything."

Nannie celebrated throughout the day with champagne, a celebratory fruitcake and helium balloons. She was also serenaded by the Chipping Norton Operatic Society which performed a selection of wartime songs and hits from musicals.