Former Gresham Village School pupil Dolly Clarke has celebrated her 102nd birthday in style with staff at Sheringham residential home Whitehaven laying on a party with singing, dancing, champagne and cake.

Former Gresham Village School pupil Dolly Clarke has celebrated her 102nd birthday in style with staff at Sheringham residential home Whitehaven laying on a party with singing, dancing, champagne and cake.

Mrs Clarke, who lived in her own home until moving to Whitehaven, St Joseph's Road, two years ago, was born at West Beckham on March 4, 1907.

After leaving school aged 14, she worked as a housekeeper, and met future husband John, then a baker at Hempstead Mill, at a local whist drive.

While Mrs Clarke concentrated on bringing up sons Roger and John, Mr Clarke took the job of gardener at Kelling Hospital, where he worked until he retired in the 1980s.

Mrs Clarke, who has four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, was joined by daughter-in-law Barbara at last week's party, with off-duty staff also coming in to help her celebrate.

Whitehaven owner manager Pamela Rickhi said Mrs Clarke was a popular resident who, in spite of suffering a string health problems, remained positive and cheerful.

"Dolly is so independent, she never complains, and it is a pleasure to have her," Mrs Rickhi added.