A WOMAN celebrated her 100th birthday in the village she has lived in her entire life. Daisy Pallett was born in Essendon on March 3, 1909, and celebrated her centenary in the village hall, School Lane, surrounded by five generations of friends and family

A WOMAN celebrated her 100th birthday in the village she has lived in her entire life.

Daisy Pallett was born in Essendon on March 3, 1909, and celebrated her centenary in the village hall, School Lane, surrounded by five generations of friends and family.

To mark the occasion, Mrs Pallett was presented with a personalised armchair, which was built by Essendon blacksmith Robin Smith and paid for by villagers.

Among mountains of congratulatory cards and flowers, including a letter from the Queen, pictures of Mrs Pallett's life were compiled in several books, offering a fascinating insight into her life with husband Wilmer during the 20th century.

Her three sons, Roy, Rex and Barry, attributed her long life to a keen love of gardening and supporting her favourite football team, Chelsea.

Speaking about her life in Essendon, Mrs Pallet, of Rectory Close, said, "Well, it's a bit late to leave now!