Birthday surprise for Kathleen, 100

KATHLEEN Coleman celebrated her centenary surrounded by friends and family.

The 100-year-old from Kingskerswell was treated to a birthday celebration with family who had travelled from as far afield as Spain and Monaco to be with her on her special day.

Kathleen went for a meal at the Passage House in Kingskerswell where she was surprised to find 28 friends and family gathered for the occasion.

Kathleen's daughter Mary Andrew, 63, recalled the celebration.

"The day was partly a surprise for mum, we'd told her she was having a party but she had no idea how many people would be there," said Mary.

"Mum is one of seven children and her sister Hetty is the only one still with us. Hetty travelled from Lemington and they saw each other for the first time in seven years."

Other family members travelled from Spain, Monaco and France as well as all over the UK.

"It was a lovely, lovely day," said Mary.

"Mum loved it, she was thrilled."

Mary said she didn't know what her mum's secret to a long life is, but she hopes she's inherited it.