A special Independence Day for Elsie

"She's very independent for her age," said her son Geoff Sorrell, 67, who lives in Reading. "We're all very proud of her and it's fantastic that she's reached 100 and is still in her own home. She's very determined to stay put."

Mrs Sorrell, nee Osbourne, was born in Chiswick on July 4,1908, but moved away to Buckinghamshire with her parents, and sisters Lily and Nelly, when she was 14 years old.

From then on she worked in service in big houses around Bourne End, even spending six months as a house-keeper for much-loved children's author Enid Blyton.

She married her husband Ron Sorrell, on August 7, 1939, and the couple moved into their Bedfont home six years later, with their only child, Geoff, who had been born in 1940.

Mr Sorrell worked at Park Davis Pharmacy, in Hounslow Heath, for many years and passed away in 1990.

"My parents had a very happy life," said Geoff. "Mum has always loved living in Bedfont. She has wonderful neighbours there and they're one of the main reasons she has been able to stay living where she is."

One of the reasons for Mrs Sorrell's popularity may have been her excellent cooking skills. She was a talented pastry cook and often shared recipes and treats with her neighbours.

To celebrate her becoming a centenarian Mrs Sorrell's family met up for a party two weeks ago. She has two grandchildren and five great grand-children, two of whom live in the United States.

Mrs Sorrell's family say she puts her longevity down to hard work, good food and never having too much money.