Friends and family join Ulverston centenarian for birthday celebrations

Winnie Mason, from Ulverston, was born on July 12, 1916, at the height of the First World War, the Battle of the Somme having only begun 11 days previously.

After getting through school, Mrs Mason found herself working at the Oxley factory in Ulverston, where she lived.

She eventually rose to the rank of forewoman in the factory, a source of immense pride to her to this day.

Mrs Mason married her sweetheart, John, in June 1939. They were married until Mr Mason's death at the age of 82.

They had two sons, Bill and Norman and she also has two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Sadly, her two sons have since died.

Even though advanced in years, Mrs Mason won't let that stop her making the most of life.

A well-liked resident of the Risedale Care Home in Abbey Road, Barrow, she takes part in Oomph! exercise classes every week to keep fit.

Speaking about her time at Risedale she said: "I'd sooner stay here than anywhere else."

When it comes down to reaching such a grand age, Mrs Mason puts it down to "plenty of naps and lots of good food".

She also spoke about how fast-paced the world has become since she was a young girl growing up in Ulverston.

She said: "It was slower moving back when there were no cars!"

On her hundredth birthday Mrs Mason received a card from the Queen that she has hardly let go of since she was handed it.

Veronica Mason, the daughter-law-of Winnie, who was with her on her special day said: "When she got the card, she just wouldn't put it down, she think's the Queen is a wonderful woman."

One of the happiest moments during the day was when Mrs Mason got to play with Pip, the six-year-old Yorkshire Terrier-poodle mix, or "Yorkiepoo".

Alongside Pip, other members of Mrs Mason's family were also there to celebrate with her, including several nieces and nephews from Ulverston.

Read about the Barrow woman who kept spirits up during the Second World War with songs