A FORMER president of the National Union of Farmers women's section celebrated her 100th birthday with the first of three parties.

Mamie Holgate was the centre of attention at her home, Little Moor House, Sabden, as family, friends and the Mayor and Mayoress of the Ribble Valley celebrated her life.

Up to 90 people are expected to attend a party at St Mary's Hall, Sabden today, and on Sunday a barbecue is being staged.

Mamie, who has two daughters, Ruth and Jeanne, four grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, lived on Bulford Farm, Guide, with her husband, Walter, all her married life.

Walter died 40 years ago and the farm was sold as Mamie moved in with Ruth, where she stayed for 30 years until settling into Little Moor. All her family live nearby.

Ruth said: "She is a wonderful character. She is always talking about the good old days. She can remember everything from being very tiny. She loved her farming and is wonderful to talk to."