A TYNEDALE woman celebrated her 102nd birthday surround by her family, friends and the staff at The Crown Inn, Catton.

Veronica 'Vera' Stonehouse was born in 1921 was the youngest of 13.  She lived in Newcastle until 1989 when she moved to Catton, Northumberland.

Vera met her husband Andy, while she was working an engraving machine during the war effort and the pair married in 1946. The couple were happily married for 37 years until Andy passed away.

Hexham Courant: Andy and Veronica on their wedding day in 1946Andy and Veronica on their wedding day in 1946 (Image: Carly Ferris)

Before Vera started working the engraving machine, she was sent to Birmingham to work in a factory before they found out how old she was and sent her home.

Andy and Veronica had a lot of hobbies but they spent a lot of their time as professional ballroom dancers while Veroncia was also an entrepreneur and owned a successful hairdressing salon.Hexham Courant: Professional ballroom dancers Andy and Veronica Professional ballroom dancers Andy and Veronica (Image: Carly Ferris)

Veronica had two children Malcolm and Carol, however Carol passed away in 2013. She also has four grandchildren Chris and Carly in Canada, Jenna in England and Niki in New Zealand. As well as five Great Grandchildren Emma Sophie and Blake in Canada, Danica in England and Chloe in NZ.

Speaking about her gran, Carly said:"She has travelled extensively and some of her favourite places were Omaha, Nebraska, Atlanta Georgia, Mansfield Ontario and Halifax Nova Scotia. 

"Her last trip to Canada was nine years ago, where she did a few laps in the family pool, which was impressive for 93. Even the captain of the plane, who has come out with her to visit us over the last few years said that she has flown so much that she could probably fly it herself."

Hexham Courant: Veronica with her daughter Carol, granddaughter Carly and Chris FerrisVeronica with her daughter Carol, granddaughter Carly and Chris Ferris (Image: Carly Ferris)

Speaking about her big day, Vera said:"I was thrilled to see my friends and family at the party to celebrate my birthday on Friday 22.

"I was overwhelmed but in my element. The next day I was so tired and slept until 11.30am."

"My secret to making it passed 100 is that I don't drink, apart from a small baileys when I have guests.

"I have never smoked and always remain independent and active which was drilled into me as I was always fit as a professional ballroom dancer."

Hexham Courant: Friends and family at the Crown Inn, Catton for Veronica's birthdayFriends and family at the Crown Inn, Catton for Veronica's birthday (Image: John Gray)