A GRANDMOTHER who celebrated her 104th birthday on the last day of the 2010s has died.

Annie Farnworth, from Blackburn, died in Royal Blackburn Hospital on February 28.

Mrs Farnworth was the wife of the late John James, and mother of Jim and Michael, as well as mother-in-law of Eileen and Gwynneth, as well as grandmother to Cathereine, Ann-Marie, Emma and Katie.

She was also sister to Frank Hartley and the late Joyce Wilkinson, and half sister of Trevor.

On her birthday, Mrs Farnworth who lived at Bowman Court, spent the morning enjoying coffee with friends before being taken for lunch by son Michael.

When the former Blakey Moor Central School pupil returned home, a party complete with buffet, cake, music and entertainment was thrown in her honour.

Bowman Court manager Tina Hargreaves said: “We are all going to miss her, she was a marvellous lady. She was a loving person, and so inspiring to have reached 104 years old and still participating in all the events we had.”

On her birthday, Ms Hargreaves said Annie was one of the most active residents in the building – despite being the oldest by a long margin.

Mrs Farnworth’s favourite activity was group singing, but she also enjoyed spending time with the pupils from neighbouring St Alban’s School, who she had successfully taught to play dominoes.

Mrs Farnworth’s funeral service will be held at St Alban’s RC Church, Blackburn on Friday, March 27, at 1.30pm, followed by cremation at Pleasington Crematorium at 3 pm.

The family have asked for family flowers only but any donations in memory of Mrs Farnworth may be given to the East Lancashire Hospice, c/o Talbot Funeral Directors, 341, Whalley New Road, Blackburn.