SHE had a ringside seat for the Queen's coronation more than 50 years ago - and she has now turned 100.

Grandmother Jeannie Gillies, of Woolnough House residential home, in Osbaldwick, York, is today having a party with friends to celebrate reaching her century.

As a member of St John Ambulance in 1953, Jeannie was on duty at Queen Elizabeth II's coronation where she enjoyed one of the best seats in the house.

Jeannie has a son, Malcolm, who she brought up as a single parent, and three grandchildren.

Jeannie said: "Being a single mother in my day was very hard work - nowadays things are made easier for girls."

Born in London on April 24, 1907, Jeannie worked as a ward auxiliary at the May Day Hospital, in London, until she retired at the age of 72.

Jeannie moved to York with her family in April 2004.

Staff at Woolnough House presented Jeannie, who is a crossword fan, with an engraved pen to mark the occasion.