A MUCH-loved resident received a birthday surprise this week as family and carers gave her a 100th birthday celebration to remember.

Betty Parminter received a special visit from the chairman of Hambleton District Council, Councillor David Hugill, who presented her with a basket of flowers as she was joined by three generations of her family.

Abbeyfield Northallerton treated her to a birthday tea where she showed off her commemorative card from the Queen.

Betty, who is originally from Putney, London, has been living in the supported housing for retired people for many years.

She was showered with gifts from her two sons, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Abbeyfield Northallerton, which can accommodate up to 12 residents in an independent environment, is celebrating its 30th anniversary and trustees recently voted to change its status to that of a fully-fledged independent charity.

This move is expected to open up grant opportunities and help develop new facilities and services.