A FORMER Worcester mayoress celebrated her 100th birthday with a family party and visitors coming from far and wide.

Muriel Lewis served as Mayoress in 1966-67 when husband Fred was mayor.

Family came from far away to the event including her grand-daughter Kirsty and great -grand-daughter Indigo travelling over from New Zealand especially for it.

Mrs Lewis has two children, Pat and Diana, four grand-children and two great-grand children who all came to the celebration.

During her life, she spent a lot of time as a housewife but was president of a number of local organisations including the Business and Women's Club and the Women's Institute.

She was also a volunteer at the Red Cross shop until she was 80 years old.

Mrs Lewis, of Sherwood Lane, Lower Wick, said: "I've received so many cards it has been hard to keep count.

"It has been so nice seeing all of my family here together."

She was married to Fred, one of Worcester's best known civic, business and motor sport personalities, for 64 years.

The man, who ran Fred Lewis Cycles in Friar Street, died in 1999 aged 86.

A champagne lunch was laid on with food including Lasagne, chicken, various salads and desserts such as cheesecake and trifle.

Mrs Lewis is originally from Birmingham, but moved to Worcester aged about 15 after a short spell in Canada.

She worked at the former Worcester Porcelain Works garage.

During her spell as Mayoress she met Prince Charles and the Queen at Palace Garden parties.

She has also been a regular attender of the Three counties show over the years.