AN ‘INDEPENDENT’ woman who has lived in the same house since she was a baby celebrated her 100th birthday on September 22- and was 'spoilt rotten'.

Vera Bunting, of Wansfell Terrace Ambleside, celebrated the huge milestone with her nephew Kevin Bunting and his wife Suzi by going for a drive and afternoon tea.

Miss Bunting, who has worked in several positions within the local community, received scores of gifts and cards to mark the occasion.

Bouquets, potted flowers and balloons filled the former rating and valuation inspector’s home. And an array of brightly coloured birthday cards adorned her living room dresser.

A message from the Queen was also happily received by the 100-year-old, which she framed ready to display.

Miss Bunting’s happy day also made national news, featuring in newspaper The Mirror as well as making an appearance on North West Tonight.

Miss Bunting nicknamed ‘Auntie V’ by her niece and nephew, moved into her Ambleside home with her father Robert, mother Rosemary and elder sister Mary and younger brother Richard, when she was 18 months old.

She revealed she had turned down four offers of marriage in order to remain in the local area, which she has described as ‘one of the most beautiful places on earth.’

The ‘remarkable’ woman, as described by her niece, told The Mirror she had really enjoyed her life, saying that the secret to a long and happy life is ‘clean, fresh air’ .

The keen walker has travelled to many countries during her lifetime including Australia, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, Sardinia, Tunisia, North Africa and even had an audience with Pope Francis in Rome.

Throughout a very busy life Miss Bunting has worked in several professions, including as a secretary and a rating and valuation inspector and as a photographer she captured the Queen and Prince Philip.

Niece Suzi Bunting previously said of her aunt: “ Quite a remarkable and still an independent lady is Miss Bunting.”