A 'well-loved' woman has celebrated a rare milestone as she marked her 100th birthday with a party at her care home while welcoming some unusual visitors on a trip down memory lane.  

Martha Wilson celebrated her big birthday at Elgar Court care home in Malvern, receiving a visit from the deputy mayor but also some horses after it her love of the animals was discovered by a local horse rider.

Martha grew up on a dairy farm in Carlisle enjoying her horses and animals and lived in this county for all of her life. 

Last year, Martha moved from Carlisle to Elgar Court to be nearer to her family, and 'has settled well into Malvern life'.

MILESTONE: Cards from children at schools (from L-R) Hanley Swan CofE Primary School, Powick CofE Primary School, and St Matthias CofE Primary School Martha’s favourite Luscious Lemon CakeMILESTONE: Cards from children at schools (from L-R) Hanley Swan CofE Primary School, Powick CofE Primary School, and St Matthias CofE Primary School and Martha’s favourite 'Luscious Lemon Cake# (Image: Elgar Court)

Elgar Court worked with Martha’s family to make sure she had 'the very best birthday, with a day of merriments and fun to be enjoyed'. 

It started in the morning, with local horsewomen Kerry Flynn (who had heard that Martha loves horses), planned a visit to the home and delighted Martha and the other residents with her little Shetland pony Princess Patch and her two larger horses, Summer and Luca. 

A spokesperson for the home said: "Martha absolutely loved feed the horses and sharing this fun with other residents."

Martha and the residents then enjoyed an 'elegant lunch', and a visit from local Malvern Deputy Mayor, Cllr David Meads who gave a speech dedicated her. 

A spokesperson said: "This was followed by an amazing birthday cake by the Chef Chris, and everyone admiring the very many fabulous birthday cards to Martha from our local schools and community well wishers – and of course, a birthday card from his royal highness, King Charles."

The fun continued with live music entertainment courtesy of Mini Concerts, then a finale banquet tea.

Sarah Cadwallader, General Manager of Elgar Court said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating a truly remarkable woman as she reaches this amazing milestone. 

"Martha is a well loved resident who always has an interesting tale to tell from her early years, and we look forward to hearing many more as she breaks into her next century.

"At Elgar Court, we celebrate birthdays not just as a mark of ageing another year but as a celebration of a resident’s life and their achievements. 

"Birthdays provide a special opportunity for us to help residents to gather with loved ones and create lasting memories”. 

Elgar Court residential home is located on part of the redeveloped QinetiQ site and is managed Barchester Healthcare.