FIVE generations of a family celebrated a 100th birthday at a North-East nursing home at the weekend.

Julia Proud marked her special day at Stoneleigh Nursing Home, in Annfield Plain, with a visit by relatives from as far afield as Nottinghamshire and Coventry.

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

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

Other visitors included Durham North MP Kevan Jones and Derwentside District Council vice-chairman Cathy Clarke, who presented Julia with bouquets.

She was delighted that 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 provided entertainment to round off a memorable day for Mrs Proud.

Daughter Maureen said staff at the home made it a very special occasion for her mother.

"It's was a wonderful day for her and the staff here deserve a big thank-you for all they have done.

"She was thrilled that so many of the family could come from so far and she was so glad to see all the children."

Mrs Proud, 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, and it is the home's first centenarian celebration in recent years.