A SPRIGHTLY pensioner, who still enjoys hitting the dance floor, has celebrated her 100th birthday. Mary, who lives at the George Crouch Centre, in Althorne Way, held a birthday bash with friends at the sheltered housing centre last Friday. One of six

A SPRIGHTLY pensioner, who still enjoys hitting the dance floor, has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Mary, who lives at the George Crouch Centre, in Althorne Way, held a birthday bash with friends at the sheltered housing centre last Friday.

One of six children, Mary was born in Islington, North London on August 28 1909, married her husband Arthur in 1941 and spent many years working at factories across the capital.

She settled in Dagenham 12-years-ago and moved to the George Crouch Centre in 2006.

The perky centenarian is still remarkably mobile and showed off a few dance at moves her birthday party.

Mary also enjoys reading, crosswords and word searches, which she says keeps her mind active.

George Crouch Centre's Care Officer, Lyn Paprota, said: "Mary is very active for her age. She'll often pop out to do a bit of shopping and until very recently took part in a number of clubs. You certainly wouldn't think she's 100."

Asked how it felt to reach 100, Mary said: "I don't feel any different than when I was younger.