A GREAT-GRANDMOTHER left the house for the first time in three years when she celebrated her 100th birthday.

Gladys Hall, of Blackburn Road, Egerton, officially turned 100 on March 22 and marked the milestone with a trip to the Astley Bank Hotel in Darwen with family.

On her special day, Mrs Hall was visited at her home by friends and family.

She received a letter from The Queen and Iain Duncan Smith, the Secretary of State for the Department for Work and Pensions, along with champagne, cake and balloons.

Mrs Hall has three children, six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Her son, John Hall, aged 57, of Bradshaw, said: “It was a great weekend — my mum absolutely loved it. She was really excited to leave the house.

“She was buzzing to get a card from The Queen. She was in her element with all that — she loves the Royals. She got all dressed up for the party at the Astley Bank Hotel and had a lovely day with everyone, particularly the great grandchildren.”

According to Mr Hall, the secret to his mother’s long life was her headstrong approach to life.

He said: “She has always kept herself busy. She’s always been house proud and always kept herself busy. At this rate, she’ll outlive us all!”

Mrs Hall was raised in Gilnow Lane, off Deane Road, and worked in the mills and the Odeon cinema.

She was married to John Hall senior, who passed away more than 30 years ago, aged 68.

Mrs Hall is an avid reader, with her favourite books including crime and detective novels.