A GREAT-grandmother marked reaching an impressive milestone surrounded by her nearest and dearest.

Mirrie Egerton celebrated her 100th birthday at the Old Raven Care Home, in London Road, Hook along with her three children as well as members of the extended family.

The birthday girl, who also has seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, was presented with a balloon emblazoned with 100th birthday, some chocolate fingers, a bunch of flowers and a birthday card from the Queen.

Mirrie was born on July 12, 1916 in Hampshire and married her late husband Verdun in 1938 and moved to Fleet where they brought up their three children Rosemary, David and Jan.

While living in Fleet the 100-year-old was an active part of the community as part of the town’s women’s guild.

She also worked for the Army Blood Bank, travelling around to the different barracks taking blood from all the soldiers.

When her children grew up Mirrie and Verdun moved to Wales – where her husband was originally from – but when he died at the age of 69, she decided to move into a bungalow in Chineham to be closer to her family.

Mirrie’s youngest daughter Jan Markey told The Gazette how in her younger days her mother used to help her with her crafts.

Jan said: “I was quite into my crafts and mum would sometimes help me with certain things.

“She was really good at doing patchwork and crochet.”

After living on her own for several years, Mirrie moved into Old Raven House about six years ago, and according to her eldest daughter Rosemary Burnside it is the most content she has ever seen her mother.

She said: “Mum had quite a difficult upbringing and moving around a lot I don’t think it helped. But the staff here have really helped her settle in and it is a great surrounding for us to celebrate her 100th birthday here.”