A 99-year-old painter who is set to celebrate her century with a special birthday party tomorrow (Wednesday) has put her longevity down to a life-long love of art.

King Edward VII was on the throne, and women had still not won the right to vote, when Elsie Vincent was born in 1909.

The talented pensioner will open her telegram from the queen surrounded by family and friends at Abbeyfield residential home in Fairlight Avenue, Woodford Green, where she lives in a room covered in her impressive art work.

The former teacher, who lost her husband Jack in 1998, gets around with the aid of a walking stick and still takes part in a wide range of activities including pottery painting and exercise sessions.

She is also a keen piano player.

She said: "Having an absorbing hobby in my painting has kept me interested in life, coupled of course, with lots of happy memories and the excellent care I receive at Abbeyfield."

Pamela Boney, who manages the care home, said: “Elsie is a very pleasant and warm-hearted lady and we are looking forward to celebrating this very special day with her.”

Elsie's birthday celebrations will start with a party at Abbeyfields, complete with a special cake and a ventriloquist.