A great-grandmother was “delighted” to receive birthday greetings from well-wishers as she celebrated her 101st birthday with a party at a Suffolk nursing home.

Ruby Bradford was joined by family members, fellow residents of Haughgate Nursing Home in Woodbridge, members of staff, and the mayor and deputy-mayor to mark the occasion with drinks and nibbles. She received flowers, gifts and a champagne toast.

“Ruby became quite emotional with all the attention,” said Mel Arundel, manager of the nursing home.

“She is such a character. She spent a lot of time talking with the mayor. She was chatting him up and wanting to see him again.”

Born in Coventry, Ruby grew up in Lincolnshire with her parents. She worked for many years as a clerk in the Ministry of Works, a government department formed during the Second World War, responsible for organising the requisition of property for use during wartime.

Her fondest memories are when she lived in Bognor Regis with her husband and son. She has two grandchildren as well as a number of great-grandchildren.

Ms Arundel said: “She likes watching TV. She shouts at the TV – and shouts at the staff, in a nice way. She’s an assertive, strong character. I think that’s why she’s lived such a long life.”

Ruby added: “The mayor was charming.”

When asked to reveal the secret to a long life, she replied: “Be kind, and honest.”