A former St Albans seamstress has celebrated both her 100th birthday and a century of living in the district.

Mabel Roe, described by friend and carer Tamara Williams as a “lovely, lovely lady”, turned 100 recently, and celebrated with family and friends on a canal boat.

The 100 year old currently resides at Tara’s Retreat, and has lived in St Albans her whole life.

Mabel attended local schools, including Garden Fields JMI, who held a commemorative assembly to mark her birthday.

Deputy head teacher at the school, Michelle Cole, said: “It was really lovely to hear from Mabel and to find out she had hit such an important milestone.

“The children absolutely loved to hear all about Mabel’s time at the school and find out how it has changed. The assembly really celebrated her.

“We felt very happy to hear that Garden Fields was and still is a valued part of the community.”

Mabel, who was the first resident at Tara’s Retreat care home in St Albans, spent her birthday on a canal boat trip with a surprise visit from her Australian cousin, and finished the day off in style with a ride in a Bentley.

Tamara Williams, activities facilitator, said: “We had the best day and Mabel enjoyed herself so much.

“We relaxed, ate fish and chips and everyone had so much fun. Mabel is an amazing lady; full of life, outgoing and fun.

“She may have turned 100, but she doesn’t look it. Mabel could pass for a woman in her 70s easily.”

When asked what Mabel’s secret is to a long life, Tamara answered: “She has an egg a day.”

The warm-hearted seamstress often spends her days knitting squares of material to send over to third world countries and her evenings at the bingo. A popular resident at the care home, Mabel received more than 50 birthday cards, including one from MP Anne Main and the Queen.

Tamara added: “She was very happy with all her cards, she is very popular here at Tara’s Retreat.”