Tracey GrayOne of the oldest people in Norfolk has marked her 109th birthday by celebrating with family and friends. Irene Pearce, known to her friends as Esme, was born in the year in which Queen Victoria died.Tracey Gray

One of the oldest people in Norfolk has marked her 109th birthday by celebrating with family and friends.

Irene Pearce, known to her friends as Esme, was born in the year in which Queen Victoria died.

She celebrated yesterday with her daughter Angela Middis, son-in-law Tony Middis and friends at Corton House residential home in City Road, Norwich.

Mrs Pearce, who moved to Corton House in 1994, also has a daughter called Madeline, as well as six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She enjoys reading and is a keen fan of Wimbledon and watching snooker matches on television.

She was born in Bristol, married twice and spent most of her working life as a shorthand typist - not retiring until she was 76.

She said: 'I have been very lucky to have had very good health, I have done extremely well - and I am still here.

'I am quite a good reader and I like paperbacks, which my daughter keeps me supplied with.'

Lyn Edmunds, a care assistant who helps to look after Mrs Pearce, said: 'She is a real joy to be with. She has a very positive outlook on things, and she is just what you would call a real lady.'

Graham Moore, manager of the home, added: 'Esme is a pleasure to care for. She still participates in games of whist and she loves Wimbledon.'

Gertrude Patrick is thought to have been Norfolk's oldest resident. Gertrude died just two months short of her 110th birthday in October 2008.

Born Gertrude Eliza Bunn on November 25, 1898, she was the eldest of 10 children and went to Willow Lane Catholic School in Norwich.

In her eighties she moved to the Great Hospital on Bishopgate, Norwich.

Do you know someone celebrating a landmark birthday? If so, contact reporter Tracey Gray on 01603 772418 or email tracey.gray@archant.co.uk