CISSY Horner vowed that when she reached her 100th birthday she would not have any fuss made, but the centenarian had a thoroughly good time when friends and family held a party for her yesterday.

The pensioner was inundated with cards and flowers at Barrington Lodge Nursing Home, Bishop Auckland, including a telegram from the Queen and one from the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Andrew Smith.

Family and friends travelled from all over the country to help her celebrate.

Mrs Horner, who was born in Darlington, worked in the town as a milliner before marrying her husband, Harry, and settling down in Shildon.

They lived in St John's Road in the town for 45 years. The couple had a daughter, Doreen, who died at the age of 31.

Mrs Horner's niece, Marjorie McLean, 68, and her husband, Ken, 72, described their aunt as a second mother and said that she was very popular.

Mrs McLean said: "I always used to stay with her from being a little girl. All of my friends used to like to go to her house as well.

"She is a really nice-natured lady. Everybody likes her. I think she has done marvellous to get to 100.''

Mrs Horner is also held in high esteem at the nursing home.

Sister Katie Marley said: "She is gorgeous and wonderful for 100. She is a very determined lady, with a mind of her own. She knows what she wants. She's lovely."