WHEN Ethel Stobbs moved to Durham City every street was cobbled and horse drawn carts were the a common mode of transport.

Mrs Stobbs, who has just celebrated her 100th birthday, was born near Marske, in Cleveland, and moved to the city with her family in 1915.

After attending St Margaret's School, she became a clerk at a business in Silver Street. In 1930 she married Stanley Morrison Stobbs, who ran a decorating company in Claypath.

The couple had a daughter, Audrey, and Mrs Stobbs also has a grandson, Geoffrey Kell.

Mrs Stobbs was a member of Durham's Townswomen's Guild and was president at the group's final session.

Surrounded by dozens of cards, including one from the Queen, she was joined by her family for a champagne birthday celebration and among her guests were staff from Durham's Clayport Library, including lending services officer Carol Attewell.

Each week Mrs Stobbs borrows at least six, large print books, which are delivered to her through the WRVS housebound delivery system.

"I love reading, particularly books about the countryside and autobiographies," she said.