A care home resident turned 100 this week and was treated to a birthday surprise from a popular soap star.

Actress Emma Atkins visited, Lavender Hills Care Home resident and Emmerdale fan Dorothy Crawshaw in Ramsbottom to celebrate the big day.

The care home, which is part of the Millennium Care Group which has five homes across Lancashire and Greater Manchester, reached out to the actress to see if she could make Dorothy’s day extra special.

Emma, who has played Charity Dingle in ITV’s Emmerdale since 2000, presented Dorothy with flowers, a bottle of champagne and even shared a birthday message from her fellow cast members.

Emma said: “Sending lots of love to Lavender Hills Care Home!

"Today I was invited to a special day, Dorothy’s 100th Birthday! I feel quite privileged that I was invited to these amazing grounds.

“Thank you for having me and Dorothy have a beautiful birthday!”

Yvonne Taylor, deputy manager at Lavender Hills, said: “She used to watch the show when she was younger, so this was a great treat for her and her family.

"We’re blown away that Emma took time out to wish Dorothy a happy birthday.

“We’d like to say a massive thank you to her and the Emmerdale cast for their kind words on this special day.”