AMELIA USHER, a pillar of the north Durham community, has celebrated her 100th birthday.
Mrs Usher marked the occasion surrounded by family and well-wishers at Durham House residential care home in Chester-le-Street.
The daughter of a local wholesale merchant, she went to Chester-le-Street Grammar School, before working at Coxon's Department Store, later Binns, in Newcastle. In 1928, she married Leonard Usher, an auctioneer and valuer of JG Usher and Son.
Mrs Usher was a member of many social and charitable organisations.
She also supported her late husband in his many associations with Rotary, the magistracy, the local council and as company commander of the Home Guard.
Her only son, Peter Usher, took over the family business until his retirement in 1992.
Mrs Usher said: "It has been a most enjoyable day, surrounded by my friends and family."
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