After a lunchtime gathering with residents and staff at Overstone Manor in nearby Sywell, she then went on to enjoy another party at Imperial Court, ExtraCare's retirement scheme in Rushden.

"It was a wonderful day," said Mary, who is still active despite her age. "I've been very lucky," she admitted.

She was also pleased to have one of her oldest friends, Betty Watson, at the parties. Mary explained: "When I was on holiday in Weymouth with my late husband Ernest many years ago, we met Betty and we've been close friends ever since. She lives in London but comes to stay with me regularly and we phone each other twice a week."

Mary, who was born in Bradford but moved to Bristol as a child, was married in 1951 and after a spell in the Avonmouth area, moved to Wellingborough. She moved to Imperial Court 11 years ago.

"I like it here and I'm well looked after by everyone including my carer, Celia Peake," she said.

Another Imperial Court resident, 77-year-old Madeline Utton, was also celebrating her birthday on the same day, so there were two cakes at the lunchtime party.

Picture: Front from left: Mary Derby (101), Betty Watson and Madeline Utton (77). Back, from left, staff members Celia Peake, Susan Tester and Joanne Talbot.

For further information, please contact:

Lucy Henson, PR officer
0789 105 3062
lucy.henson@extracare.org.uk