A rug-making former record-label employee celebrated her 103rd birthday in style at a Weymouth care home.

Frances 'Frankie' Belsham, who was born on July 8, 1915, marked the occasion with sparkling wine and cake, surrounded by family, friends and staff at Buxton House care home on Radipole Lane.

Mrs Belsham's long life has covered more than a century of momentous occasions and rapid change. Born at the height of the First World War, she has lived through the Great Depression, the Second World War and the Cold War - as well as revolutionary social shifts, the popularisation of the automobile and the invention of computers, the internet and any number of other technological advances.

Born in Taunton in Somerset, Mrs Belsham moved to London as a young woman to work for EMI Records, progressing to a sales manager role for the famous label - a position she stayed in for more than 25 years.

She was married to her husband, Jim, for 66 years, and had one son, John.

In her spare time Mrs Belsham, who has been at Buxton House for two years, enjoys crafts and indulging her creative talents; in particular, she loves making rugs.

She has enjoyed watching and taking part in many activities at Buxton House, with her favourite activities at the Care South-operated home including skittles and bat and balloon.

The 103-year-old says she is happiest spending time outside in the sunshine, surrounded by loved ones.

Mrs Belsham celebrated her 103rd birthday surrounded by family, friends, staff and fellow residents, who made sure her big day was a special one, with a surprise tea party arranged at the home. She enjoyed a glass of sparkling wine and a piece of cake while the residents and staff sang ‘Happy Birthday’.

Asked the secret to her longevity, Frances pointed to her long and happy marriage to her late husband Jim.

Buxton House manager Clare Baker said: “Frankie turning 103 is a remarkable feat and we were delighted to help her mark this special day with a special party just for her.

"Frances is a joy to be around, and all the staff at Buxton House enjoy listening to her tell stories. At Care South, all staff work hard to make sure our residents’ birthdays are truly memorable occasions.”