A ZEST for life and a refusal to feel old are the secrets to longevity for one centenarian.

Dolly Edwards was born in Trimdon Colliery, near Sedgefield, and attended nearby Deaf Hill School.

After school she spent a short while in service in the Bradford area then returned to Trimdon Colliery where she worked in Jack Elliott’s Shop.

She married miner John Edwards in 1937 and they lived in his home village of Kelloe then Cornforth Lane and Tursdale before settling in Bowburn, where they raised two daughters.

Mr Edwards died about 30 years ago but they had enjoyed many years together, with global travel a particular love of the couple.

Mrs Edwards’ interests included cooking, bingo, sewing and knitting- which at one point resulted in many Bowburn residents wearing near identical sweaters she had made.

She moved to HC One Tenlands Care Home, in Ferryhill, 18 months ago and today (Wednesday, September 10) celebrated her 100th birthday there with a party.

Daughters Maureen Whitfield, of Middlestone Moor, and Audrey Edson, of Milton Keynes, and two grandchildren, Gary and Kim Whitfield, say she still enjoys life.

Mrs Whitfield said: “She’s never felt old and has lived and enjoyed every day.”

“She is loving and caring but quick witted and sharp too,” added Mrs Edson.