ONE of Darlington's oldest residents celebrated her 105th birthday with a glass of champagne and a slice of cake.
Gertrude Hutchinson, known as Gertie, enjoyed her big day with staff and friends at St William's Residential Home, Cornwall Avenue. Miss Hutchinson, who has been deaf since she was a child and who has no family, moved into the home 11 years ago, aged 94.
Before then, she lived in Bishop Auckland and worked at the town's Golf Club during the Second World War. Her friend Margaret Winter said: "She seemed to enjoy the day, although she got very tired.
"She got a letter from the Queen and a photograph, which she was very interested in.
"Her health isn't bad, considering her age. She is well looked and loved and cared for."
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