A LIFELONG member of a Kidderminster performing group has celebrated her 90th birthday in the same year the group marks its 90th milestone.

Edna Church, a member of Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society (KODS) enjoyed the occasion with family and friends during a surprise birthday party at the town's New Meeting Hall.

Mrs Church, who received the long service award from the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) joined the group in 1939.

She was forced, however, to wait until 1947 to make her debut with the society, due to the outbreak of the Second World War.

The mother of two met her late husband, Bill, through the society and they married in 1948.

The highly valued member of the chorus was well known for her strong soprano voice and occasionally took small parts in shows such as Me and My Girl.

Mrs Church became a member of the committee in the late 1940s and went on to become assistant to the business manager, Harold Burgess.

She combined the role with that of booking manager where she would sell tickets for the KODS productions, first at the Playhouse and after 1968 at the Civic Centre in Stourport.

Following her retirement as business manager, she became president of the society and also a life member and first patron of the society in the 1980s.

Denise Churchett, a spokeswoman for the operatic society, said the birthday and anniversary were good joint reasons for celebration.

The society was founded in 1916 and is affiliated to NODA.

She added: "Edna has seen several generations of members go through the society.

"Many of us first met her when we came to rehearsals as children with our parents and we have introduced her to our children in the same way.

"Edna recalls that all the members of all ages have always accepted her and welcomed her with a smile. She has never been made to feel old. She believes this is what has kept her so young."