A BINGO loving pensioner had a real birthday treat when friends and family helped her celebrate in her favourite venue.

Vera Laird is a regular at Beacon Bingo on The Esplanade, Redcar, and to mark her 90th birthday on Monday she called in for a special surprise.

The pensioner, who has lived in Redcar for 43 years, has played four times a week for more than 35 years, prompting venue assistant manager Dot Wood to throw a party in her honour.

Mrs Laird said: “It has been a wonderful evening and I am over the moon to have had my family and friends at Beacon Bingo with me to help celebrate.

“Bingo has changed so much over the years but one thing has stayed the same and that is the lovely people that I meet here every day. I have made friends for life with both the staff and the other customers and I cannot thank everyone here enough for making this day so memorable.”

And in light of Vera’s birthday, the company offered customers special prizes when the top of the shop number was called as well as giving people a chance to win free games worth £90.

The bingo assistant manager added: “As soon as we knew it was Vera’s 90th birthday we didn’t hesitate to get something planned for her.

"It was a great night and I know Vera enjoyed every bit of it. She received flowers, cards, and a handmade cake from our customers, it really was a special night for a special lady.”