A 105-year-old celebrated her landmark birthday with a glass of bubbly and a visit from the Mayor Judith Addison.

Rebecca Cooper was joined by family and friends at Springhill Care Home in Accrington where she now lives.

Mrs Cooper was born in 1908, the same year as Ernest Shackleton’s expedition to the South Pole was coming to a dramatic end and the first Selfridges store opened its doors in London.

The former mill worker and weaver has put her longevity down to ‘keeping a dry sense of humour’ and eating and drinking well.

Theresa Swan, general manager of the home, said she enjoyed a glass of champagne and her good health was toasted by family, friends and staff.

She added: “Rebecca is the life and soul of the party, even at 105.

“She has a real energy for life, continuing to enjoy dancing and singing, and has a keen memory for many of the older songs we play.

“The celebration for her birthday was wonderful with her family joining us for the occasion, and the Mayor supporting Rebecca even though the Mayor’s office was officially closed for the Christmas period – we really appreciated Judith joining us for the occasion.”

Mrs Cooper was born in Blackburn and worked in a local mill from the age of 12 and as a full-time weaver when she left school aged 14.