FIVE generations of a family helped 100th birthday celebrations to go with a swing.

Relatives from as far afield as Nottinghamshire and Coventry made a bee-line for Stoneleigh Nursing Home in Annfield Plain, for Julia Proud's big day.

The great-great grandmother was the centre of attention, as around 60 visitors called to offer their best wishes last Saturday.

Among the visiting family members were her four surviving children, Billy, Margaret, Maureen and Arthur, many of her ten grandchildren, several great- grandchildren and the fifth generation was represented by six-month-old twins Megan and Jack, of the Newark area.

The VIP visitors included Durham North MP Kevan Jones and Derwentside District Council vice-chairwoman Cathy Clarke, who both added to the welter of bouquets Julia received. She was delighted special arrangements could be made to transport her to St Teresa's Church in Annfield Plain, so she could take mass for the first time in several years.

Father Michael McKenna presented her with the Papal Blessing at both the church and later when he visited Stoneleigh.

Singer Phil Corrigan went through a full repertoire of golden oldies to round off an unforgettable day. Daughter Maureen said: "It's was a wonderful day for her and the staff here deserve a big thankyou.

"She was thrilled so many of the family could come and she was specially glad to see everyone."

Julia, who worked in service in her younger days, was brought up in nearby Hill Top, Flint Hill, and married a miner, Arthur.

She moved into Stoneleigh in March 2000.