ONCE you reach 100 (if you’re lucky enough), you’d think that choosing a birthday present would become almost impossible.

Eve Ferrell knew exactly what she wanted though – a brand new set of nails!

The Potters Bar resident was treated to a manicure for her 100th birthday, on September 9, as well as a special family meal.

Close friend Terri Leigh, who took her for the treatment, said: “It’s all she wanted. We went there for her 99th and was already booking it up for her 100th.

“She has always been a fan of the finer things in life.”

Eve, a mum-of-two, grandmother and great-grandmother, moved to her current home in Wyllyotts Close in 1998.

She said: “I feel very happy to have such nice people around me at me age.

“I’ve always helped people, always cooked and shopped for people and done whatever I can; I hope that’s why people are helping me now.

“I never thought I would reach this age though.”

A tailor until she retired aged 80, Eve, who had three brothers and two sisters, was born in Southwark and spent her early days in Hampstead, before later moving to Southend, where she spent many happy days.

Her daughter Joy Cox said: “One of her favourite things to do is to meet people, she just loves company.

“She is particularly fond of her great-granddaughter as well.”

Eve, a keen football fan, added the secret to her grand age was “consistent hard work” – as well as the occasional tipple of Baileys!

“I would probably say my happiest was when I was in hospital at the same time as my daughter.

“She was having a baby and she came in and brought the baby to me, that was very special.”

Eve is not slowing down at 100 either.

She already has plans for another manicure for her next birthday and is determined to walk as far unaided as possible.