A special customer at a Great Yarmouth store was greeted by staff with a birthday cake, chocolates and flowers – to celebrate her 100th birthday.

Sainsbury’s gave Mary Howarth a birthday treat on October 18 to wish her a happy birthday and to say thank you for her years of loyal custom.

Mrs Howarth visited the store with carer Susan Sayer and was taken into the café which had been specially decorated with banners.

The great-grandmother was over the moon and said: “I really didn’t expect to be treated in this wonderful way. I have always enjoyed shopping here. Everyone is always so helpful and friendly towards me.

Store manager Jo Richardson said: “To think Mary was born during the First World War is quite astonishing. To try and comprehend the experiences she has witnessed over the last 100 years is unfathomable. It is an amazing achievement.”