A great-grandmother renowned for “helping anybody who needs helping” has celebrated turning 100-years-old with family and well-wishers.

Edith ‘Cissy’ Emery marked her birthday today (April 28) at Treetops Care Home in Station Road, Epping.

The centenarian, who has lived in Harlow for much of her life, was visited by town mayor Michael Wright and deputy mayor Les Burrows as she waited for her birthday message from the Queen, 10 years her junior.

A former stay-at-home mum for three sons, a dinner lady and home help, Mrs Emery is well known for her generous nature.

Son Peter Gibbons, 77, of Jerounds in Harlow, said: “If anyone wanted anything she would do it, she was always ready to help in various ways like taking a bit of washing.

“She always puts people first.

“I think she was brought up to help other people, and she has been a good mother.

“She has always been there for us, she always put us first.”

He added: “If she had a pound and someone wanted it, she would give it to them.

“She has been that sort of lady all her life.”

A keen knitter and a fan of camping with her late second husband, Mrs Emery is very easy to get on with, said her son.

“Nothing is too much trouble for her,” he added.

With six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one great, great-grandchild on the way in October, Mrs Emery is in good health.

Unfortunately for others, there is no great secret to Mrs Emery’s long life, said her son.

“She did not drink, she did not smoke, she likes a good old cup of tea and something to eat.

“She didn’t touch anything.”

After poor health and several visits to the hospital, her son says she is now doing a lot better at Treetops.

“She is looking a lot better, a lot fitter all due to good attention,” he said.