A TALENTED 100-year-old with a passion for sewing celebrated her birthday with those closest to her on Tuesday.

Mona Swindells was joined by daughter Christine Brown and sons George and Joe in her Appleton home to mark the special milestone.

Mona, who enjoyed working as a seamstress in her earlier years, took up the craft after turning 14.

After developing her talents she went onto make wedding dresses and admits the career was thoroughly enjoyable.

She said: "Sewing has definitely been one of my favourite things over the years – I started a job as a trainee seamstress when I left school.

"I have also enjoyed going to the Lake District – that has been really nice."

But the 100-year-old doesn't believe there is a specific secret to reaching the century mark.

She added: "It is just about getting on with it really but I have been quite healthy and looked after myself."

Christine, who regularly visits her mum, helped arrange the birthday celebrations, including a party and meal.

And she believes she may have found the formula to Mona's impressive health.

"My mum has always drunk a lot of water which I think has helped – she would have it in the morning and at night," she said.