Nellie Fort is getting used to receiving almost as many distinguished guests, telegrams and cards as the Queen Mother herself.

Which is only right considering that the County Durham will be 100 years old on the same day as her more famous counterpart this Friday.

And she is receiving attention from some of the country's most powerful politicians as well as royalty as the big day approaches.

Government minister for local government and North-West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong presented her with a bouquet of flowers on Saturday in recognition of Mrs Fort's service to the Labour Party which is also 100 years old this year.

Mrs Fort, who was born in Sherburn Hill but lived in Blackhall in north Durham for most of her life, was a Labour Party councillor for the party with her late husband John.

Despite all the attention from the great and the good Mrs Fort kept her feet firmly on the ground when Mrs Armstrong presented her with her bouquet of flowers. "I didn't think I was that good that I deserved all of this," she laughed.

As well as her telegram from the Queen Mrs Fort will also receive an array of gifts from ASDA Stanley on Wednesday.

And, best of all, all her family plan to make Friday a special day for her, just like it will be for that other birthday girl in London.