SARAH Butcher celebrated her 100th birthday last week in the house in which she was born.

Mrs Butcher nee Perry-Horlor of Garndiffaith, had a surprise party on her milestone birthday on March 8.

Relatives from as far afield as America came to celebrate her special day.

Jill Hobbs, Sarah’s daughter, said: “Mum was so pleased to see everyone.”

Mrs Butcher was also visited by the mayor of Torfaen, Cllr Philip Seabourne, and other councillors.

An even bigger party was held at the Millennium Hall at the weekend with more than 80 guests.

Mrs Butcher received numerous cards, including one from the Queen, and several bouquets.

Mrs Butcher attended Garndiffaith Junior and Infants School and has lived in Garndiffaith all her life apart from a period when she lived in Birmingham from the age of 17 to 24, when she was in service.

Returning from Birmingham, Sarah worked as a housekeeper and cook in Griffithstown.

In 1940 she married James Arthur Butcher, a miner, who died in 1973.

The couple had two children Jill, 70, and Neil, 66. Mrs Butcher has three granddaughters, three great granddaughters and one great grandson.

Her son Neil and his wife live with Mrs Butcher in the house she grew up in.