Edna's 100th birthday surprise

A remarkable woman had an extra special present on her 100th birthday when her niece travelled from Malta to join in the celebrations, reports The North West Evening Mail:

..Edna Kirkman, who celebrated reaching her century yesterday, was overjoyed to see Dorothy Abela after two years. The pair spent the day together at Combe House Residential Home on Walney, where Mrs Kirkman has lived for over three years. Fellow residents later joined the centenarian for a birthday tea party at the Central Drive home. Mrs Kirkman, who was born in Salford and lived in Manchester, decided to retire to Barrow with her late husband Bill. The couple, who enjoyed walking in the Lake District, lived on Yarlside Road, Roose. The former office worker now enjoys sewing, reading and watching Songs of Praise.

Her niece, Mrs Abela, 69, said: “Edna is a very happy lady who is easily contented. “I think reaching her 100th birthday has kept her going as she had something to aim for. She had a lovely day which she really enjoyed. The home also organised a tea party with a birthday cake which was lovely. She received 60 cards, including one from the Queen. She was absolutely thrilled to bits about that as she is a big fan of the Royal Family.

“Edna has no children but she is very close to her family who are set to visit her at the weekend.” The celebrations will continue on Saturday when family members from Lancashire visit Walney to take Mrs Kirkman out for a birthday meal.