AT 100 years old Mary Jones has learned a trick or two, but her secret to a long and happy life will remain a secret.

On Friday the widowed mother-of-three celebrated her 100th birthday with her daughter-in-law and her grandson, with three varieties of cakes and cupcakes.

She also received a congratulatory letter from the Queen, and a telegram from Iain Duncan-Smith.

Grandson Sean, who lives in Royal Wootton Bassett, said: “It’s amazing that she has lived so long.”

The youngest of seven children, Mary was born and grew up in Sutton Coldfield before becoming a secretary and meeting her future husband, Alec, who worked as an accountant.

During the war Alec worked for the war effort, but the nature of his work remains a secret and Mary never spoke about it.

Angela Jones, Mary’s daughter-in-law, said: “Mary is very independent.

“She lived on her own in Sutton until last year, when she broke her leg.”

She also enjoyed making tapestries and collecting stamps.

Since June this year, Mary has lived in Bassett House Care Home in Royal Wootton Bassett.