A WOMAN believed to be the oldest in Sussex has celebrated her 110th birthday.

Ethel May Gale, of Newick House nursing home, Rottingdean, marked the event with cake and bubbly. Ethel, known as Aunty May, was born in Chertsey, Surrey, in 1888. She has lived through two World Wars and seen Queen Victoria, King Edward VII, George V, Edward VIII, George VI and the present Queen on the throne. She married William Gale in 1914 and became a housekeeper and cook. Ethel was widowed just 12 years later, but remained in service all through her life until her retirement in Peacehaven. One of her proudest moments was the day she had a close encounter with royalty. She said: "I was at Addlestone station. The royal train was delayed and I saw Queen Victoria through the carriage window." Ethel's family believe the sea air has kept her fit and healthy. Her great-niece, Brenda Baker, said: "She's a lovely old lady and a well-respected member of the family. We couldn't imagine life without her and hope that she lives on a good few more years yet." Newick House matron Patricia Linkson said: "Ethel is a real favourite here. She is a lovely bubbly lady who looks absolutely marvellous for her age." Ethel's celebration follows the 108th birthday earlier this month of Shoreham resident Amy Quinault. Amy, who lives at Burrscrofte residential home, Pond Road, celebrated her big day with a sherry and cake party with friends and daughter Mavis, 69.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.