WHILE thousands of people will be toasting the 50th anniversary of the Queen's Accession today one woman will be holding her own very special celebration.
Today marks exactly five decades since Queen Elizabeth II took the throne following the death of her father George VI and kicks off her Golden Jubilee celebrations.
And for one sprightly pensioner today is a double jubilee.
Sallie Turner, who lives with her daughter in Mellor, was 50 years old on the day Elizabeth took over the monarchy and tonight she is holding court at a 100th birthday party fit for a queen.
Sallie's family has hired a room at the Mytton Fold Hotel, in Langho, which will be decked out in royal red, white and blue with bunting and flags hanging from every wall.
And if Her Majesty herself happens to be at a loose end, she can always pop in, having been cordially invited.
Daughter Joan Egan said: "She has been looking forward to this day for years. Mum is always telling people that the flags fly on the town hall on her birthday -- but she never tells them why. It will be a wonderful night, and mum will certainly be a queen for the day. I have sent an invitation to the Palace, but she may have other plans."
Joan said her mother was "chuffed to bits" at the prospect of getting the obligatory telegram from the Queen -- and said it was something she thoroughly deserved.
Sallie started work during the tail end of the First World War at a bakery, in Wigan, and was still working as a cleaner she was in her 80s and living in Buncer Lane, Blackburn.
And Sallie, who has eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren, is still as active.
Three years ago she got her first 10-year passport and takes holidays abroad with Joan and son-in-law Tony.
Tony said: "She is a remarkable woman and it will be a great night for her. She will be holding court over her guests."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article