A HEREFORDSHIRE veteran has celebrated turning 101 in style and received a card from the King.

Irene Causley, of Leominster Bupa Care Home in Herefordshire, celebrated with her friends, family and care home staff.

Born in London in 1923, Mrs Causley started her working life as a dressmaker. In her youth she enjoyed cycling, running, dancing and travelling around the world.

She then joined the Royal Air Force and worked in flight control during the Second World War, where she met her late husband Phillip.

After the war, Mr and Mrs Causley and their children lived in Singapore for 18 months.

Mrs Causley has travelled in several unique modes of transport over the years, notably a Wellington Bomber over Germany, and a helicopter as a treat for her 90th birthday.

Now, she spends most of her time enjoying crafts like knitting and crochet, and she is also the home's undefeated Scrabble champion.

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Giving her advice for a long and happy life, Mrs Causley said: "My advice would be to always be active and on the go."

Fleur Bright, the care home manager at Bupa in Leominster, said: "She is a truly wonderful lady who is a joy to be around. Celebrating our residents' achievements is important to us."

On her 101st birthday, Mrs Causley received a card from King Charles III as she celebrated her special day with cake and music.