A CUMBRIAN centenarian has celebrated her birthday in style, with one family member who is a whole 100 years younger.

Mary Smith was born November, 13 1923 in Little Clifton & lived in Sandwith before emigrating  with her parents to Canada in 1928 when she was 5, she sailed out on the Duchess of Bedford & lived in London Ontario.

One of her vivid childhood memories were her white ice skates, she used to skate every night after school with her friends in the garden or the local park. All Mary’s schooling was in Canada but she returned to England with her family, when she was 15.

Times and Star: Mary and her grandchildren look at special memories at her party.Mary and her grandchildren look at special memories at her party. (Image: Supplied)

She worked in the offices at Millers shoe factory, Cockermouth, later meeting Leo Smith and marrying in 1951. They lived in Greysouthen and then returned to live in Little Clifton, Jennifer was born in 1958.

They enjoyed life in the Lake District, having a long and happy retirement, with wonderful holidays abroad.

Mary has three grandchildren, Mark, Melissa and Philip and five great grandchildren. Leo, Maggie, Harvey, Sienna and baby Lily.

When the grandchildren left Cumbria to go to university, they didn’t return. Jennifer Les, Mary & Leo made the decision to move south in 2017, to be nearer the family which of course was expanding.

Mary lost her husband in 2019, they had enjoyed living in Hertfordshire, a big move at age 94 but an adventure. They loved the warm, dry weather & visits into London & of course seeing more of the little ones.

Mary has seen the birth of another grandchild in August this year when Lily was born. 100 years between them.

Times and Star: Mary with the card she received from the King and Queen Consort to mark her special day.Mary with the card she received from the King and Queen Consort to mark her special day. (Image: Supplied)

Mary has had three parties to celebrate her special birthday. Lunch at Sopwell House, St Albans with Jennifer & Les on her birthday, followed by a party at Melissa’s home with her three children.

The following day, entertainment was provided at St Matthews Care Home in Redbourn where Mary goes regularly for respite and where she has made some lovely friends.

Then a family party held in Borehamwood where everyone gathered for an Afternoon Tea Party with favourite music by Glen Miller, Frank Sinatra.

 Mary was overwhelmed that family and friends travelled so far from Cumbria to celebrate with her.

She has of course, received her special card from King Charles & Queen Camilla, which has taken pride of place.