CENTENARIAN Thomas Pountney celebrated his birthday yesterday surrounded by his friends and family and with a visit from the Mayor of Pendle Coun Pauline McCormick.

Thomas, of Cravendale Avenue, Nelson has spent most of his life in the area after meeting his wife of 75 years, Clara, in Brierfield. The couple were at home for the special day, entertaining family and friends, along with Thomas' son Raymond, 68.

Raymond said: "It was a smashing day with a few friends and family, a few glasses of wine and a chat about the old times."