CELEBRATIONS took place at a Barton-on-Sea care home for one resident’s 100th birthday.

Helen Robertson, who now lives at the Gatehouse Residential Care Home, was surrounded by family and friends for her special day, the first of two family celebrations to take place for the momentous occasion.

Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Sue Spittle also visited Mrs Robertson to wish her many happy returns, along with her four daughters, Ann, Jean, Sheila and Heather as well as sons-in-law and grandchildren.

The family were due to have a special dinner at Sway manor before a party on Saturday for 130 people at St Marks church hall in Highcliffe.

Mrs Robertson moved to the home in September 2010 from her bungalow in Highcliffe, which she had shared with her husband Allister, before he passed away in 1996.

The couple were married in September 1934 and lived in East Finchley in London for many years, where they had their four daughters.

They moved to Highcliffe in 1983 to be nearer daughter Jean and her family, who at the time ran the Walkford Stores.

Mrs Robertson continued her long association with the WRVS at the Day Centre in Lymington Road, serving a total of 21 years.

She has seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Eldest daughter Ann Horan said: “We’re having a lovely day. The weather is superb and the home has put on such a lovely show – they have ordered a big cake.

“Nearly 100 cards have arrived and we have a big party on Saturday as well.”