EVELYN Jones has lived under 19 prime ministers, five monarchs and survived two world wars.

And this week, she marked another milestone when she celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends.

Born in Astwood Road, Worcester, on February 25, 1913, she attended Worcester Sec-ondary School for Girls in Taylors Lane and then completed a secretarial course before working at McCowans leather shop in Friar Street.

In the late 1940s, she became the school secretary at Pershore High School (then Pershore Secondary Modern School) and held that position until she retired in 1977.

She lived in Mill Lane in the town and then in Cherry Orchard, before moving to South Hayes Care Home in London Road, Worcester.

A well-known and popular member of the community in Pershore, about 100 people attended her 80th birthday celebrations.

Mrs Jones was on the Pershore Carnival committee and could often be seen selling raffle tickets for that event at various locations in the town.

She was also an active member of the Townswomen’s Guild, Tea Club, and a literary group, and used to organise events for the Pershore Retired Teachers.

She loved travelling, visiting several countries in Europe, and was still driving at the age of 88, and only then giving up her beloved car because it was not going to pass its MOT.

Among her favourite pastimes are playing Scrabble and completing the daily crossword.

Mrs Jones, who is an aunt to Valerie, and a great aunt and great-great aunt several times over, said the secret to her longevity was keeping active.

She said: “It feels marvellous to have reached the age of 100 –it’s great to have gotten here.

“I’ve always been determined not to give up and I also like to keep active and have lots of interests.”