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Gladys Roberts marked the big day with a surprise party at the care home where he has lived for the last three years, Dr Anderson Lodge in Stainforth.

Her family joined the party with a gazebo at the side of the home’s lounge, in the garden, so everyone could join the celebration and stick to social distancing.

Gladys was described by care home manager Sara Wilson as very humble, and said she didn’t know know what the fuss was about.

Gladys Roberts celebrates her 100th birthday at Dr Anderson Lodge, Stainforth, Doncaster

She said: “The secret to having a long and healthy life is having good genes, and being happy. Always do what makes you happy.” Gladys said she had thoroughly enjoyed the last 100 years.

She said she was known for being direct and speaking her mind and always standing up for herself.

Gladys was born in Sheffield on New Hall Road and she went to New Hall primary school.

She moved to Doncaster 20 years ago to be closer to her daughter, Brenda.

She said she enjoyed her school days, especially dancing and playing kiss and catch with the boys.

When Gladys first left school she was an errand girl on the railway on Brightside Lane, spending her working days collecting letters and messages.

During World War Two Gladys worked on the railway.

She later worked at a Sheffield cutlery factory.

She married Arthur Roberts in 1948, at St Clements Church, Sheffield. Daughter Brenda was born in 1949.

Arthur worked as a tanker lorry driver, but died in 1977. He loved rescuing animals and often came home with a lame animal or bird. He once tried to bring a barn owl in the house.

Gladys has three grandchildren, three great grandchildren and another great grandchild expected in September.

After retiring Gladys enjoyed knitting and dancing. “I’ve always had a passion for dancing,” she said

Now she said she enjoys living in Doncaster and being close to her family.

She said the biggest difference now to when she was growing up was she had to walk everywhere then, adding things were a lot cheaper back then.

'Doing what makes you happy is key to long life' - and Doncaster OAP Gladys Roberts should know