GREAT-grandmother Emily Neary was given the royal treatment for her 100th birthday — with a card from the Queen, a visit from the Mayor and a brass band playing Happy Birthday.

Mrs Neary, a resident at the Old Vicarage Rest Home in Ivy Bank Road, Astley Bridge, was joined by her family, fellow residents and staff for the party.

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Martin Donaghy also paid a visit. On the big day, Mrs Neary received chocolates, flowers, and 40 cards, including the customary message from the Queen.

Mrs Neary, who has two sons, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, said: “I don’t feel any different now that I’m 100, but I’m glad it’s over with because the people around me have worked so hard to make my birthday a very special day. A big ‘thank you’ goes to them all.

“The party was absolutely wonderful — it couldn’t have been better.

“Living this long is not magic, it’s what’s given to you. You have to take each day as it comes and do what you think is best for yourself.”

Care worker Emma Grimwood said: “Emily absolutely loved the party. She has always been one of those people who puts everybody first, so we returned the favour.

“She’s absolutely lovely. She’s the kind of resident that everybody loves.”

Mrs Neary was born on July 8, 1914, and lived in Great Lever throughout her life.

She was married to William Neary until his death in 1957, aged 42.

She worked at a cotton mill in Lever Street, Great Lever, and later in life she worked at laundry rooms in var- ious swimming baths across Bolton.

Before she moved to The Old Vicarage in 2002, Mrs Neary lived in Broad Street, Great Lever.