100th birthday is full of surprises for Washington’s Margaret

Margaret McMann, who was born in Castletown, Sunderland, and has since spent her life in Washington, reached three figures on Saturday.

Margarent, a mother-of-eight who has 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, had her birthday marked with a party at Legends, in Tyne Gardens, Washington.

She was joined by about 100 family and friends, including sister Annie Pratt – the former Mayor of Sunderland – who travelled up from her home in Shrewsbury to be there.

Grandson Lee Dufty, meanwhile, flew over from America for the occasion, leaving the birthday girl very surprised.

Mrs McMann’s daughter Brenda Mackin, 76, said: “It was a big party and there is a big family of us, so it was a great occasion.

“She knew there was going to be a party, but not about who was coming, so it was a surprise for her to see her sister – who she had not seen for many years – and her grandson Lee.

“It was great to see everyone together.”

Mrs McMann’s husband, Joseph, died about 20 years ago, and she continues to live on her own in Abbey Close, Washington.

Mrs Mackin added: “She is a very happy person, and likes going out.

“When she worked, she was a waitress and also worked as a housekeeper, and she stays as active as she can now.

“She is extremely well-loved, and everyone wanted to be there to mark her special day.”