100-year-old Elizabeth Cleasby, of Brympton, with her daily bottle of Guinness. DA5058P1DANCING, laughing and a daily dose of Guinness ensured Elizabeth Cleasby reached her 100th birthday in great spirits.

There can't be many 100-year-olds who are the youngster in the family but, among Elizabeth's cards is one from her older sister, Sally, who is 103.

Elizabeth spent much of her life in London, but lived in Poulton-le-Fylde before moving to Salisbury.

For the past 16 years, she has lived at Brympton House, Harnham, where she was one of the first residents, as well as the oldest.

The active pensioner enjoyed a busy social life well into her 90s and loved going dancing with the British Legion.

"I was never here," she said.

"I did all sorts of dancing but the Charleston was the best."

Elizabeth was also a keen member of the Sunshine Club and still enjoys welcoming visitors and cooking for herself.

"I have chicken every day - that keeps me going," said Elizabeth, who washes down her lunch with a bottle of Guinness.

"I just have the one," she laughed.

"If I had any more, I would be on the floor."

Elizabeth had a son and has a daughter, three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who helped her celebrate her big birthday at a party on Sunday.

"There were so many people here to see me," she said.

"My actual birthday is today, Monday, but I had a party yesterday and there's another one tomorrow - so many parties for me."

On Monday, chairman of Salisbury City Almshouses Lady Benson and clerk of the trustees Ed Wall paid Elizabeth a visit to present her with flowers.

Sadly, Sally wasn't able to be with her sister on her big day but her card stood in pride of place next to Elizabeth's message from the Queen.

"I am very pleased with that," she said.

"And I have had cake and balloons, too, so it is a proper birthday."