AN Evesham woman who celebrated her 100th birthday this week claims hard work and good food is the recipe for a long and happy life.

Catherine Turner, who is known as Maude, of Ferry View sheltered accommodation, still has an excellent memory.

The hard-working mother of one son put in 46 years' voluntary work with the local Royal British Legion, assembling poppies for the major annual fund-raising events.

"We had to attach bits of wire and leaves to the poppies. I was one of the very first members of the women's branch," said Mrs Turner.

She was born in Broadway and lived in West Street, Evesham, for 63 years after marrying Fred Turner, a Vale produce lorry driver.

She vividly recalls her childhood days.

"I was the eldest of 10 and we had a very happy home life.

"My mother led the singing and we all used to join in, including father, with villagers listening outside.

"I had a wonderful family and a good and faithful husband."

She said she was very sorry for young people nowadays.

"They have very little experience of hard work and get into debt," she said.

The centenarian attended a birthday party at Ferry View with her friends, relatives and members of the staff at Evesham and Pershore Housing Association.

She said: "I am still enjoying life and my wonderful memories. I am living in a very happy place and the staff look after me very well here."