A LONG-STANDING Prudhoe resident celebrated a significant milestone this week surrounded by close family and friends.

Mary (Kitty) Catherine Constance Graham, who has lived in the town for over 60 years, turned 100-years-old on Thursday, with changes made at the last minute to ensure she could still toast her birthday in style.

Kitty's family had originally planned a tea party on the day of her birthday, but with new coronavirus restrictions coming into play on Monday, which restrict gatherings of more than six people, they organised a meeting at Prudhoe Castle Bowls Club last Saturday, followed by a meal at Balls, of Prudhoe.

Kitty, who was still playing bowls until two years ago, said: "It's nice to reach this milestone and to celebrate with friends and family, especially at the bowls club where I have spent many happy hours over the years.

"Bowls kept me active and the company of the friends there meant I could always have a chat."

Kitty still lives independently in her one-bedroom Karbon homes bungalow, where she is cared for by family.

Born on September 17 1920, she spent much of childhood in the shipyard area of Wallsend, before moving to Swalwell, in Gateshead, at 21.

Kitty then worked as a nurse at Prudhoe Hall Colony, later known as Prudhoe Mental Hospital, where she cared for mentally and physically disabled people, who she continued to care for passionately long after her retirement.

Kitty married her late husband William, a volunteer reserve with the Royal Air Force, in March 1945 and started a family, welcoming Michael and Ann, who both also live in the town.

Kitty's special celebrations coincided with the bowls club's annual competition in remembrance of William, who died in October 1990.

Son Michael said: "We had a fantastic 'socially distanced' day, sharing fond memories and to be held on the same day as the bowls competition in memory of my dad, was fitting. Here's to many more years!"

Kelly Taylor, assistant director housing from Karbon Homes, added: “What a magnificent achievement to celebrate 100 years.

"On behalf of everyone at Karbon Homes, we would like to wish Kitty a very happy and memorable birthday.”