Town Mayor, Cllr Shirley Quinn, was on hand last Sunday to deliver a bouquet of flowers and a birthday cake to lifelong Shildon resident Dorothy Howe, who celebrated reaching the grand age of 95.

Dorothy, who has lived in the same house since her birth, is a regular at Shildon Railway Institute and attends their twice weekly bingo sessions.

Dorothy’s friends, along with staff and committee members at the Institute, had decorated the lounge with banners and a large balloon, and had all contributed to a little buffet to celebrate this lovely lady’s birthday.

When asked what the secret to a long life was, Dorothy sharply replied: “Not drinking alcohol!”

The birthday girl then gave a short thank you speech to acknowledge the kindness shown to her by everyone in attendance.

Dorothy had also enjoyed a celebratory meal with family members at the Burtree Inn at Darlington earlier in the week.