Cards, cakes and celebrations for Horsham woman

Elizabeth Sayer, of Littlehaven Lane, reached the milestone on Friday February 20.

A number of friends and neighbours joined her for the celebrations, and she received a surprise visit from niece Margaret Barratt and her husband Robert, who live in Lincolnshire.

Elizabeth explained she realised the surprise visit would occur when Margaret didn’t phone on the morning of her birthday.

She said: “I have had a lovely day with all my friends coming and Margaret and Robert, which was lovely.

“I have just sat in my chair and welcomed all these kind people that have come and joined in. They have brought me some lovely presents and birthday cakes.

“It is wonderful really to get to that age, I suppose it is a great age to reach.”

One of three sisters, Elizabeth was born in South Wales during the First World War.

She was living in Coventry when she met future husband Percy, who was born and bred in Horsham, at the factory where they both worked.

The couple were married in Wales and moved to Littlehaven Lane, where Elizabeth has lived ever since.

Neighbours Tom and Sheila Phillips, who have known Elizabeth for 53 years and help her with odd jobs around the house, made other residents in the road aware of her landmark birthday.

Elizabeth also said she receives regular visits from neighbours the Bookers, who help her with shopping.

Reflecting on the secret to her longevity, she said: “Keeping healthy I suppose, and looking after myself.

“My friends look after me - they make sure I am all right.”