SURROUNDED by family and friends from across the world, Swindon's latest centenarian has lost none of her magic sparkle.

Joined by relatives from Greece and Switzerland Antonia Mulino, of Stratton St Margaret, celebrated her 100 years in style at the Cross Link Centre on Saturday.

One of seven children born in the Turkish city of Izmir, Mrs Mulino now has six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and one great, great-grandchild.

She moved to Swindon 16 years ago after partially losing her sight. Mrs Mulino remains a popular figure in the community.

Daughter Theresa Bridgeman said her mother still talked about events of the past and could remember a lot about her 100 years of life.

"She remembers everything about the war and what she had to go through.

"One of her great-grandchildren is in the US Army and couldn't come over as he is serving in Afghanistan.

"Before she lost most of her sight she used to love knitting for charity.

"The telegram from the Queen meant a lot to her and will take pride of place in the house.

"So many people have sent cards and flowers and have been around to congratulate her."

A devoted Catholic, Mrs Mulino is a dedicated churchgoer and still attends mass every week.

Her husband Pierre died in 1957 at the age of 63.