A SPRIGHTLY pensioner celebrated her 102nd birthday with a few of her favourite songs yesterday.

Annie Isabella (Bella) Gauden, formerly a Sacriston shopkeeper, sang along to a singer's special performance of birthday, Christmas and wartime songs at Langley Park Residential Home, near Durham City.

The show was laid on by staff at the home, who also organised a party for all the residents and members of Mrs Gauden's family.

Deputy manager Anne Melvin said she had a wonderful day. "She got a beautiful arrangement of flowers from the home's owners and one of the local councillors came along," she said.

"Everyone had a buffet lunch, with sherry and a beautiful birthday cake, which Bella's daughter, Olive, brought in. She's a lovely lady and marvellous for her age. She looks about 82."

Mrs Gauden, a widow, has one daughter and one granddaughter.