Maritsa Vassiliou was joined by some of her 61 descendants today (5 August) to hear the telegrammed congratulations from the Queen and David Blunkett at a celebration for her 100th birthday at Alsen Day Centre. <br><br>Maritsa, who came to England from Northern Cyprus in January 1960, was surrounded by some of her seven children, 26 grand-children, 25 great-grand-children and three great-great-grand-children as she cut into her 100th birthday cake. <br><br>She gave her secret to living a long life as accepting whatever happens to you. She said: ‘I had lots of problems in this life and being hungry is both good and bad. At my age I’ve done all the things I’ve wished for and there’s nothing else left that I want to do.’<br><br>However, Maritsa, who lives in Lennox House residential care home, said she still enjoys going to the park and taking lots of walks as well as singing. <br><br>Deputy Mayor Anna Berrent was on hand with Islington Council Chief Executive Helen Bailey to make a presentation to Maritsa and to read out the telegrams sent to her by David Blunkett and HM the Queen. Greek Cypriot food was served, a violinist played 'Happy Birthday' and Maritsa got up and danced. <br><br>ENDS
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009