AN ANIMAL-LOVING 100-year-old celebrated her birthday surrounded by friends.

An array of brightly coloured balloons and cards surrounded former farmer Ruth Cottingham as she marked a “delightful” ten decades.

The selfless centenarian grew up in Trowbridge and friends said she had a reputation as a confident woman who was always willing to help anyone.

She spent much of her working life as a secretary but this all changed in the 1960s when she met her husband Alan at his farm near East Hoathly.

They married in 1968 with Ruth moving to join him in Sussex and help run the farm. She quickly became well acquainted with the animals, including geese, cattle, two cats and a dog, which she was particularly fond of.

She now lives at Copper Beech Bupa Care Home in nearby Uckfield and continues to spend time with several friends who live nearby.

Her friend Marion Salmon said: “I have always found Ruth to be a calm, interested person who would listen to all my problems and then make a really sensible comment. We always have a laugh together.”

She has also made a lasting impression on staff since joining the care home.

Home Manager, Gillian Carter, said: “Ruth has become like a family member to so many of the staff here. She’s a delight to be around.

“She’s a natural with people and it was just great to be able to spend such a special day with her.”