RELATIVES turned out in force to help mark a special landmark for a special mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

It was not the surroundings that had been planned to mark Grace Watson’s 100th birthday.

For just a fortnight ago she suffered a fall, broke her leg and is currently recovering in the West Suffolk Hospital, in Bury St Edmunds.

Nonetheless hospital staff went the extra mile to help the celebrations go ahead with a party in the chapel, yesterday.

Grace, who lives in Blackbourne View sheltered accommodation, in Ixworth, was joined by her daughter Margaret Gardiner, 69, from Thurston; grandson Adrian Gardiner, 46; Sarah Potter, 43; three great grandchildren, and family members totalling nearly 30.

Born in Ilford, she married her husband Colin, in 1934, and the couple lived in various parts of the country before settling down in Suffolk. Sadly Colin died last year, aged 97, but Grace still manages to live an independent life.

Her daughter said the day went well.

“All she wanted was to see her family. She just wanted a family party and she even helped with the planning. The hospital was absolutely brilliant and they did far more than we expected.”

Alice Troup, service manager for surgical specialities, at West Suffolk, helped to organise the party and said: “Everyone was in good spirits and Grace was sitting up in her chair holding court. I don’t think she expected so many people to turn up but it was a special occasion and we were glad we were able to help.”