A VETERAN former politician who was awarded an MBE for services to the community has turned 101.

Elizabeth Mills, a former member of Worcestershire County Council and mayor of Stourport-upon-Severn, was presented with a cake from Wychavon District Council to mark the occasion.

Mrs Mills, a retired bank worker and mum-of-one, was first elected to the county council in 1962 and was mayor of Stourport-upon-Severn in 1982 and 1992.

She is also a former Conservative group leader on Wychavon District Council and was its chairman twice.

Her career in politics included 29 years on Stourport-upon-Severn Town Council.

A widow, she now lives in the town’s Ravenhurst Rest Home where she celebrated with family and friends.

Councillor Stephen Clee, district council chairman, said: “She celebrated a beautiful birthday with friends, staff and former colleagues and is in great spirits.”