A special landmark has been reached by an Abbots Langley resident, and her relatives and close friends joined the big occasion.  

Tessa Lawless celebrated turning 100 on Sunday, October 19, with Irish singer Dave Dawson and Irish dancers, as well as giving her own rendition of Danny Boy and Molly Malone on the microphone. 

Having met and married her husband Tom Lawless in Ireland, Mrs Lawless moved to Watford in 1944.

She worked at the Ovaltine factory in Kings Langley for 40 years, and lived in Abbots Langley until 2006 when she moved to Prince Michael of Kent Court, in Stratford Road, Watford, where the birthday party took place.

Tracy Lydon and Sandra Wotton, activity organisers at the home said they felt honoured and privileged to be part of such a momentous occasion. 

They said: "Tessa has been so looking forward to becoming 100 and looked so very happy on the day, enjoying every single minute of her celebrations, toasting her birthday with a cup of tea which she can't do without."

Elizabeth Corbett, home manager at Michael of Kent Court, said: "Tessa is fantastic for her age and has a young outlook. She is very happy here and loves her family very much. Tessa makes the most of life and participates in all activities at Prince Michael."

Mrs Lawless also received a message of congratulations from the Queen and a letter from the Irish president, Michael D Higgins.

Mrs Lawless said: "I can't believe I'm 100 as it sounds so old and I don't feel it. I think they've got my age wrong."

Her daughter Val and son Kevin visit Tessa at the home frequently and were happy to see her enjoying her very special day.