A FAMILY were reunited after 40 years at a “marvellous” 100th birthday party in Newport on Saturday.

Centenarian Dot Browne had not seen her son Alan for 15 years but he flew into South Wales from Australia for the celebrations.

It had been 40 years since Alan had seen other members of his family, including his mum’s half-sisters Ethel and Marie.

Alan Browne, who moved to Australia around 30 years ago, said it was “really amazing” and a "happy day" to see his family again.

The family shared stories of Dot’s varied life including when, at 90-years-old, she travelled to Cuba in an attempt to see Fidel Castro, after being “a real strong communist” in her youth.

A party was held at Spring Gardens care home in Bell Vue Terrace, Newport, where Dot lives. She had a cake, balloons and entertainment from a singer performing songs from the 1940s and 1950s.

100-year-old birthday girl Ms Browne was born in London but never knew her father, who was killed in the First World War. She married Philip and they had two sons but later separated.

Around 50 years ago she moved to Cefn Road, Newport, while working as an executive officer for the civil service’s statistics department.

Son Alan said she was highly skilled and had a number of hobbies, including glass engraving, furniture-making, oil painting and wood-carving.

She used to specialise in making Welsh love spoons and also was “fantastic” at making soft toys, making hundreds of soft toy chicks every Easter.

Mr Browne said his mum also loved walking and was a keen cyclist.

She ran a club for people who were divorced and separated and worked in a charity shop until she was 90.

Marie Puto, Dot’s half sister, said: “She’s always busy, always got some project on the go. She could make something out of nothing, always so clever.

“It’s been marvellous today. They did a most beautiful afternoon tea.”

Mr Browne said: “The home have put on a fantastic job. There are pictures of mum out and balloons. It’s amazing. She’s very happy here.

“It’s been absolutely brilliant.”

Len Morgan, duty manager at the home, said: “As you can see she’s a lovely lady. She’s been with us for a few years, it’s nice for her to see her family, especially with Alan from Australia.

“We have a buffet later. Dot likes a drop of brandy. I think she will have a lay in tomorrow after having a few brandies tonight.”