VERA Syms loves the sunshine and so had the perfect day for her 100th birthday party in West End.

The weather was lovely for her landmark celebration and so the party was held outside.

Fifteen family and friends helped Vera, a former seamstress, enjoy the day at the Pinewood Rest Home in West End near Southampton on Sunday.

Manager Pam Boulton said: “It was excellent. All Vera’s family were here, her son Garth, about 15 people, and as it was so nice we were in the garden.”

She added: “Vera is very sprightly. She likes to sunbathe. We don’t need to do anything for her, she is very independent.”

Vera has been at Pinewood for about 18 months. She enjoyed getting the congratulations from the Queen. “She loved it. It was a beautiful card. We are going to frame it for her,” said Pam.