THE mother of one of Penarth's longest running estate agents celebrated her 100th birthday last month.

Daphne Baker, whose son set up David Baker & Co nearly 44 years ago, celebrated becoming a centenarian by having a family meal at Cafe Des Amis in Penarth.

Estate agent David Baker said that it was down to his mother that he managed to set up the business in the first place.

"She lent me the money to open the business so if it wasn't for her I wouldn't be where I am now," he said.

Mrs Baker, who reached the milestone on March 16, grew up in Cardiff before moving to Aruba, where her only son was born, as her husband was a sea captain.

During the war she worked as a nurse at St David's Hospital.

After returning back to Sully she moved to Penarth about 25 years ago.

Mrs Baker, who still worked at David Baker & Co estate agents until around 20 years ago, has one son, four grandchildren, one great grandchild, and another on the way.

Her grandson Richard Baker, who works at the family business, said: "She would like to thank everyone that sent cards and well wishes as she got a lot more than she expected."

He added that the secret to her longevity was her independence and keeping active.

"She hasn’t given up, she still goes out and does things,” he said.

“She was still walking from her flat on Clinton Road to get her shopping in the town centre until her early 90’s.”