A woman has been recognised by the Queen after reaching her centenary earlier this month.

Amelia Flood, who lives at Bushey House Beaumont, turned 100 on September 3 and received a telegram from the Queen in recognition of her landmark birthday.

Mrs Flood was joined by staff, relatives, friends and other residents as a champagne reception was held at the home and guests enjoyed a special birthday cake made by the home’s chef.

Her son, David, helped set up a grand surprise for his mother, which included 100 gigantic balloons and a strawberry chocolate fondue.

Speaking about her birthday, Mrs Flood said: “I am just quite surprised at how many people have come along to celebrate with me, I had no idea that this was being planned for me, my son and the staff here kept the secret very well! I still can’t believe the amount of effort that everyone has gone to.”

Azaad Saumtally, General Manager of Barchester Bushey House Beaumont added: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone.

“Amelia is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more as she breaks into her next century.”