CARE workers and family pushed the boat out to celebrate Elsie Hill's 102nd birthday earlier today (Sunday, November 23).

Stockton town mayor, Cllr Barbara Inman and the town's MP, Alex Cunningham, popped in as guests of honour to help Mrs Hill celebrate her big day.

There was also a three course Sunday roast, entertainment from professional singer Liza Candara and bingo as large numbers of family and friends visited her at The Beeches Care Home in the Newton area of Stockton.

Liz Jones, customer relations officer at the care centre, said Mrs Hill, who had one daughter in her 80s, had travelled around the world in her life and had been married to a Government official but lived locally. She has been living in the care home for six years.

Ms Jones said: "It's been a lovely day and the room with all her family and friends is absolutely packed. Everyone has enjoyed it."