ALICE Poskitt ensured she had a special celebration for her 100th birthday - by planning it herself.

The former member of the women’s land army was determined that everything would be just right for the afternoon tea she had with friends and family in the lounge at the sheltered housing complex where she lives in West Linton.

“She’s a fearfully independent woman,” said daughter-in-law Donna Poskitt. “She knew exactly what she wanted for her birthday and organised it all herself.” Alice moved to sheltered housing in Broomlee Court from Pencuik five years ago after her husband Arthur died and has continued to live life to the full. She does all her own shopping, cleaning, and gets around under her own steam.

“Everyone who meets her says she is an amazing lady for her age,” said her daughter-in law. “She truly is of a different generation and fiercely independent.

“She is loved by all her fellow residents at Broomlee Court and currently holds the title of the eldest resident.

“She continues to take part in all activities, from armchair keep-fit, to bingo, coffee mornings and loves to chat.

“She puts her longevity down to making sure she gets out everyday walking and not sitting down in her armchair. Her sister Mary, passed away three years ago at the fantastic age of 105. So Alice, has a number of years ahead of her, to match her sister’s achievement.” Alice received a congratulatory telegram and card from the Queen that now sit alongside the card she received from Her Majesty for her Diamond Wedding Anniversary.

Born and brought up in Edinburgh, Alice moved to Pencuik when she married. She served in the women’s land army in Inverness for several years during the Second World War and worked in a letting agent’s in Edinburgh.

Alice’s son, Graeme, 68, her only child, and his wife live in nearby Rutherford Castle Drive. “We’re only 10 minutes away from her and she likes being at Broomlee Court,” said Mrs Poskitt. “It has been a saviour for her. She has lots of friends around her and it keeps loneliness at bay.”