THERE was a double celebration at a Darlington care home yesterday.

Staff at Eden Cottage, in Cobden Street, threw a party to celebrate the 100th birthday of resident Violet Higginbottom.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Darlington, Ron and Margaret Lewis, were invited to the event, which was also attended by Mrs Higginbottom's family and friends.

Staff were also celebrating the birthday of Louie Goodwill who is 97.

Owner of Eden Cottage, Maureen Horton, said: "We had a double birthday celebration. Violet was really pleased to receive a telegram from the Queen and was thrilled about the party.

"We had flowers and bunting all over the place."

Mrs Higginbottom was born in Middlestone Moor, near Spennymoor, but spent most of her life in Hurworth.