FORMER nurse Lena Chester celebrated her 100th birthday, complete with telegram from the Queen and a visit from the town mayor.

The mother-of-one, who is described as a "content and optimistic" person, lives at Shevington Court Care Home, in Holt Lane, Prescot.

Mayor of St Helens, Cllr Geoffrey Pearl, popped along to add his wishes to those of family, friends and staff.

Lena's daughter Joan Bryant, 70, said her mum's long life may be a result of her positive outlook.

Lena was born in St Helens, growing up in Fingerpost and later moving to Thatto Heath.

Joan said: "For a girl of the era she grew up in, she had a good education. She left school at 17 rather than 14, which was the normal age."

After school, Lena trained in nursing and worked as a fever nurse at St Helens Hospital and the Christie in Manchester.

In 1940, she married Bert, who she met at a dance in the town hall. The couple had Joan, their only child, in 1944.

Joan said: "I was their war effort!"

She added: "My mum was always very strong emotionally, and was a content and optimistic person.

"She used to write poetry, loved ballroom dancing and, as she grew older, her main pastime was walking the various dogs she had - long walks every day.

"She was a great mother and I have lovely memories of childhood. We used to go on caravan holidays and visit my aunt in Northumberland."

In 1967, the family moved to Elephant Lane in Thatto Heath, where they stayed, and in 1982, Bert died.

Joan, who visits her mum regularly, said: "She now has advanced dementia - it began 12 years ago, getting steadily worse. Despite the illness, she still has the same nature. She's still positive and happy."

Lena's grandson Chris, 50, and great-granddaughter Mitzi, 12, were also present at the party.

Lesley Wilkinson, Shevington Court manager, said: "It was a beautiful day. Lena was alert and sang along with everybody. She enjoyed the cake, buffet and festivities, and was delighted with her telegram from the Queen. Many thanks to our activities coordinator Pat Nevitt, for organising the day."