FORMER keen walker Hetty Bretherton has certainly gone the distance!

For the mother-of-two, of Haslingden, has celebrated her 100th birthday.

At the age of 90, she belied her age by climbing to Peel Tower.

Hetty, who now lives in warden-controlled accommodation in Haslingden, celebrated her big day surrounded by family and friends.

She has a son, David, and a daughter, Joan, both of whom attended her centenary party.

Born and educated in Bury, she later moved to Ramsbottom and married Mr Bill Bretherton. The couple then took up residence in Stubbins.

Throughout her working life, Hetty was an employee at the nearby Turnbull & Stockdale cotton mill until she retired at the age of 65.

Enthusiastic walkers, the couple were well-known in the village.

Hetty’s husband died seven years ago, just months before they were due to celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary.

Her walking days have been curtailed, however, after she fell and broke her hip.

Son David said: “Since mum moved to her flat in Haslingden, she’s had a new lease of life.”