Her 100th birthday celebrations proved a joyous occasion for Charlotte Johnston, from Enniskillen, who was joined by family and friends as she turned 100 on Monday, November 23.

The remarkable woman, whose vibrancy and fresh appearance certainly belie her years, marked the special date at a birthday party at the Graan Abbey Nursing Home, where she currently resides.

A Telegram from The Queen and a letter from the President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins along with a cheque are among the many celebratory messages received by Charlotte, the recipient of many cards, flowers, and gifts.

Among her many callers were the Bishop of Clogher, the Rt. Rev. John McDowell, and also Canon Ian Ellis and Canon Desmond Kingston, of Rossorry Parish.

A native of Co. Tyrone, Charlotte was born in Corkhill, Kilskeery, and she attended Kilskeery School and was a member of Kilskeery Church of Ireland.

She recalls that she was "a delicate child" and she stayed at home with her parents until she got married. Her parents were the former Wilhelmina Campbell of Kilgartnaleague and William Edward Thompson from Kilskeery, and she was one in a family of seven sons and five daughters. Charlotte, the last of her generation, remembers having "a very happy childhood."

She married William Johnston, whom she says she went to school with, and they made their home in Enniskillen. Charlotte's husband died before their son William James Johnston, who was called after his father, was born. She recalls people were very good to her after her husband's death and her family "were wonderful."

When her son Billy got married, she says she went to work in Frank Thornton's shop beside Wellworth's for a number of years. After retiring from there, she continued to live in Enniskillen.

A woman, who has enjoyed leading a quiet life, she was devoted to her home and family and she likes older people. She has two granddaughters and great grandchildren, whom she enjoys, and felt it was "wonderful" to have them share in her 100th birthday celebrations. Cousins 'came from all arts and parts,' she added.

The room had been specially decorated and a band came in for the special occasion, while a large banner had also been created.

A centenarian, who enjoys life, she believes her mother would have been delighted to see her reach 100 because she was a delicate child. "I think she would be so proud that I have lived so long," indicated Charlotte, whose celebrations lasted about a week. "It's marvellous," believes Charlotte, who says: "It's lovely to be loved and it's good to love."

A very contented figure, she says she is very happy at the Graan and adds she is very well looked after.

Sitting in her room, relaxing following her party, she expresses her appreciation of all her friends, neighbours and family for their cards, gifts and good wishes - marking her 100th birthday.

Thankful to the Lord for her long life, she acknowledges "my faith has kept me going." That would have been her mother's feeling, believes Charlotte, who added: "She was a wonderful woman."