A WOMAN born and bred in Penarth has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Henrietta Lovegrove, known as Hettie, who lives at Ty Dewi Sant care home, became a centenarian last Thursday (September 8) and received a letter from The Queen and the first minister for Wales, Carwyn Jones.

She was joined by her family from all over the country at Victoria Tea Rooms on the day and the home held its own special event last Friday.

Born in Dock Road, Mrs Lovegrove was one of ten children and went on to work for many years at a butchers on Windsor Road.

She also had an allotment on Westbourne Road which she spent a lot of time on.

Her son, Mike, her only child, said she has worked hard all her life and was "full of it" when she had her party.

Mrs Lovegrove now has three grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

She arrived at the home in January having lived independently since the death of her husband of sixty years, George, until the age of 99.

She would still board the bus to see her friend in Redlands Road up until she was 95.

Speaking about how Penarth has changed, Mrs Lovegrove said: "It certainly has changed. The buildings and the shops for one and the marina coming in where the old docks used to be.

She is the last surviving sibling and gave an insight into her long life.

She said: "I think hard work is the secret. I enjoy the gardening club and being outdoors. I like classical music and dancing especially Strauss."

Her son said: "She is so well looked after here, the staff are great."