An arty St Albans grandmother has celebrated her 100th birthday by raising £300 for charity through a homemade craft stall.

As part of a craft group who meet in the communal area of Parkside View on Chiltern Road, resident Amelia “Mim” Neal makes homemade trinkets such as boxes, cards, and pen holders.

She sold their Christmas creations at a stall in Marshalswick in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. There were sewed Christmas tree decorations, chocolate boxes, and knitted snowmen.

Mim asked: “What do you want at 100? I have a wonderful caring family which I would say is my secret to living as long as I have – that and my love for crafts. I’ve been sewing and making things for decades which keep my mind and my body active.”

Amelia has been a widow for more than 30 years but has two children, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren to help her celebrate the milestone year.

Before the event she said: “I don’t really want a big fuss but I know my neighbours at Parkside View have arranged a party and my family are keeping their own celebrations a surprise but have said there is something planned.

“I just hope we raise a good amount for charity, that’s what it is all about.”

Amelia has asked people donate to the charity instead of buying her presents: “I have a family member living with Alzheimer’s disease and it is surprising once you get talking to others just how many are affected.

“My family have been very well supported by the charity and this is a way to show my appreciation.”

Alzheimer’s Society community fundraiser for Herts Soraya Bowen said the products are really well made: “It just goes to show that age is no barrier. We are delighted to have Amelia and the craft group’s support.”

Adding: “Every pound raised will help Alzheimer’s Society provide information and support, improve care, fund research and create lasting change for people affected by dementia.”

Alzheimer’s Society invest money dementia care, cause, cure and prevention and have committed to spending £150 million on research over the next decade.

The stall was held on November 12 at the Ridgeway Church, Sandringham School after the weekly service.