YORKSHIRE lass Clara Deakins celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday, saying it was the best birthday she had ever had.

The cheerful centenarian, who has lived at Buckland Court, Amesbury, since 1999, was enjoying a barbecue and party with her family and friends in the summer sunshine.

Earlier in the day, she had welcomed Salisbury MP Robert Key and Amesbury's Mayor Allan Peach, who both dropped in to congratulate her.

Mrs Deakins, who was born in the city of York, was asked by Mr Key: "How are you?"

She replied: "I'm fine. I always keep fine. Just because you're old, you don't have to be grumpy."

During her long life, Mrs Deakins has travelled a great deal in this country and abroad and said she had always enjoyed flying.

She would have liked to have celebrated her centenary with a flight in a hot air balloon but said she was quite happy to make do with a party with her friends.

She said: "I'm sorry I can't fly now, but there it is!"

Mr Key presented her with a card and a letter of congratulations and Mrs Deakins was delighted with a card from the Queen.

She told the Journal: "This is the best birthday I've ever had, and I have had a few.