A WOMAN has celebrated her 105th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Ivy Leitch, from Allendale, travelled to Elm Bank Care Home in Hexham to enjoy a special party to commemorate the day.

She was joined by son Rod, daughter-in-law June and grandson Richard for the celebration which also hosted an entertainer.

As per tradition, Ivy received a special birthday card from the Queen, as well as a letter from the Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions Amber Rudd.

Despite living in Allendale, Ivy travels to Elm Bank Care Home in Hexham twice a week.

Ivy’s youngest son, Rod (75), said: “She really enjoys coming here and socialising with friends new and old. The staff here are a great help.”

Born in Surrey on June 5, 1914, Ivy grew up under the shadow of the First World War, which included the death of her father while she was a baby. She moved to Hampshire after her first marriage with partner Jerry, where the pair became publicans and owned three pubs.

Although the role of a publican wasn’t a family tradition, the pair quickly took it in their stride and soon became vital members of the local communities they lived in.

The pair had two sons before Jerry later died.

After returning from a visit to Australia, Ivy married Ted, who she met whilst travelling, and the pair moved to Hampshire. After Ted’s death, Ivy moved to Allendale where son Rod lives with his family.

The birth of Rod, born on June 6, 1994, is especially significant due to the fact it occurred on D-Day. - a day in the Second World War in which allied forces invaded northern France by means of beach landings in Normandy.

Ivy has seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, and continues to have a happy life in Allendale which includes attending the local lunch club every week.