THERE were no big celebrations for Renee Thomas' 100th birthday - she was determined to spend the day in her own home.

Hannah 'Renee' Irene Thomas celebrated her special day quietly, with visits from family and friends.

Her nephew Alan Gibson said her main wish was to receive her birthday card from the Queen - and she was thrilled when it arrived.

Mrs Thomas was born in Bradford-upon-Avon on November 4, 1903, and was one of five children. Her parents moved to South Wales when she was young.

She married collier husband Arthur, who died 17 years ago, and she has lived in the same house in Cwmcarn for the last 64 years.

The couple adopted a daughter Marilyn, who died of liver disease, and Mrs Thomas has two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Mr Gibson said most of her family were long-lived.

"One of her three brothers died in a swimming accident in Australia, and he was the youngest to die at 35.

"But another brother was 96, her sister died at 92 and her other brother, my father, was 86," said Mr Gibson.

He added his aunt was a "marvellous" woman, who managed to live independently with some help from neighbours and her granddaughter.