A WARNER Court resident recently celebrated her 100th birthday on leap year day.

Friends and family of Dorothy Clarke gathered to mark her special day.

Dorothy was born on February 28, 1920, a historical day in the calendar when Maurice Ravel’s orchestral suite “Le tombeau de Couperin” premiered in Paris.

A party organiser, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “The surprise party for Dorothy was held on Saturday, February 29. Around 40 people turned up, including close friends and family. It all started at 2pm and carried on for a few hours.

“Initially, the celebration was only meant for close family members. Dorothy was told there would be a family photo shoot, but neighbours and residents also came along to celebrate her 100th birthday. Everyone sang her happy birthday and watched her blow out the candles.

“She was very surprised and did not want anything and had not cottoned on that there would be a surprise gathering. Dorothy was overwhelmed at how many people turned up to celebrate with her. Dorothy’s daughter even bought her a cake.

“The 100-year-old received a letter from the Queen. She was surprised and really pleased to have received it in the post,” the organiser added.

For those who are about to hit their 100th birthday, anyone can apply through the Government website to receive a letter from the Queen.

Members of the public are able to apply up to three weeks before the birthday or anniversary date, or five weeks before if you apply online. It is possible to get a message for someone’s 100th or 105th birthday from the Queen on these special occasions and also a letter every year after the 105th anniversary.

There is an application form on the Government website that needs to be filled in online so that the letter request from the Queen can be sent out to the individual turning 100 or 105.

The application requires a good photocopy of the celebrant’s birth certificate or a British passport. There is no charge for this service, but documentary proof is required in order to process the celebrant’s application form, especially for those who are British nationals living abroad.