A HEREFORD woman described as having a "cheery word and smile for everyone" has celebrated turning 100.

Born and brought up in the city on Brynwyn Terrace, Gladys Skinner was a student at Bluecoat School before she began working at the General Hospital as a matrons maid.

A senior girl in the Salvation Army, she met husband Bert at Sunday school when she was just 10.

After continuing to see each other, the couple later married and went on a train to Tiverton for their Honeymoon.

As Mr Skinner was in the forces, the couple frequently travelled and his wife particularly enjoyed their time being stationed in Italy.

Mrs Skinner's parents were heavily involved in the Salvation Army – Gladys' father formed the over 60s club – and both she and her husband were also members.

She later moved back to Hereford where she owned toy shops H G Skinners and went on to own a number of shops in the city and Ledbury.

Mrs Skinner moved to Coldwells House care home in March this year and it has been a “home from home” for her, having settled in well.

Her company is enjoyed by staff and residents.