FIVE generations of one family gathered in Southampton to toast one of the city's oldest - and healthiest - residents.

Champion pensioner Bertie Dinsdale celebrated her 100th birthday at a party held in the block of flats where she has lived for more than 30 years.

Bertie was born in the year that saw the Battle of Jutland and other key events that shaped the outcome of the First World War.

But despite her advanced age she is still able to live on her own - and does not need to take any medication.

Bertie says her health and longevity are down to an occasional tot of whisky in her bedtime tea, plus the fact she did a lot of walking when she was younger.

Her eldest daughter, Maureen Pickett, 75, of Tadley, near Basingstoke, said: "She's very family-orientated - and she's ever such a happy lady.

"She's in excellent health and doesn't take one tablet, whereas most people a lot younger than her are on statins and goodness knows what."

Maureen's husband Kevin added: "She's spent only a handful of days in hospital, giving birth to her children and undergoing an operation about 15 years ago.

"Maureen and one of her granddaughters visit her every day, ensuring she has a substantial meal and some company.

"I'm very lucky that she's my mother-in-law. She's a wonderful, joyful person - very caring and a delight to be with."

Bertie's other two children are Jimmy, 64, of Curdridge, and Alberta, 73, of Swaythling. Another daughter, Pat, died three years ago.

She also has nine grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and six great great grandchildren.

All five generations of the family were present when Bertie celebrated her 100th birthday at Ventnor Court in Bassett, Southampton. The former laundress has lived in the block for 31 years, longer than anyone else, and is thought to be the first resident to become a centenarian.

A birthday cake was in the shape of the Empress of Britain, a Southampton liner used for troop transport during the Second World War.

Her late husband Jim was among those rescued after the 42,348 vessel was sunk by a Nazi U-boat off Ireland in 1940.

Jim and Bertie were married at Southampton Register Office in 1939. He rose to become head chef at P&O Ships but died 45 years ago aged 56.