A GREAT grandmother who was the oldest resident in her village until she had to move into a care home has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Betty Atkinson had lived in Bearpark, near Durham, for more than 50 years and was thought to be the village’s oldest resident until she moved to Hallgarth Care Home, in the city, two years ago.

She celebrated her centenary with friends and family on Saturday, July 6.

She was joined by her daughter Jean, son Derek, two grandchildren and great granddaughter for a celebration at Hallgarth Care Home.

Mrs Atkinson, who was involved with Bearpark Methodist Church for many years, worked at the former Pot and Glass pub in Neville’s Cross. She married her husband Billy in 1940 and the couple were together for almost 60 years, until his death in 1999.

She thanked everyone for their cards and gifts, and staff at the home for making the day special.