A KEEN bingo player has celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Helen Thomson toasted the milestone birthday on August 26 at Hilton Lodge Nursing Home, Haddington.

Born near Kelso, she lived in Edinburgh with husband James, who passed away in 1987.

Family and friends arrived at the Court Street nursing home on her big day and toasted the occasion, which was complete with a telegram from HM The Queen.

Daughter-in-law Norma Thomson said: “It was a super day and Hilton Lodge did her proud.

“Altogether, there were nearly 30 guests and among them was another lady who is going to be 100 next year.

“I think Helen was quite mesmerised by it all. It was a very good day and she was just delighted so many friends and family had turned out.”

Among those in attendance were sons Ian, who lives in Hull; James, who lives in Garvald; and Walter, who lives in Penicuik; as well as step-daughter Carol, who stays in Kelso.

Before her retirement, Helen, who has six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, worked at Crawford Biscuits and Scottish & Newcastle Brewery for a number of years.

Outside of work, she was a keen churchgoer, attending Wilson Memorial Church, Portobello.

Norma added: “She loved bingo.

“That was her favourite time and she enjoyed her gardening when she was able.”