A FORMER Kidderminster resident is on top of the world after celebrating her 100th birthday down under.

Nell Wright emigrated to Australia in 1976 after leading a vibrant life in the town, which saw her and her late husband, Syd, set up the S&N Wright coach company - one of the first travel companies in England to run continental tours to France, Switzerland and Italy.

The couple later set up Wright's Holiday and Travel Bureau in Kidderminster, which was managed by their only son and former King Charles I Grammar School pupil, Martin, until he emigrated to southern Australia in 1975.

The eldest of seven children, centenarian Nell was also a founder member of the Kidderminster branch of the Women's League for Health and Beauty and a keen member of Kidderminster Operatic Society.

Her niece, Johanna Massey, of Northgate Close, Kidderminster, said longevity was in the family's blood, with five of Nell's seven brothers and sisters still fighting fit, including 98-year-old Edna Maiden, who lives at The Firs nursing home in Kidderminster.

She added the birthday girl, who moved to Australia to be closer to her son, celebrated her birthday in style - receiving congratulatory letters from nine dignitaries including the Queen and Australian Prime Minister, John Howard.