AUGUST 27 was a very special day for one member of Romsey Baptist Church.

Avis Barber turned 100 yrs old, and the church members celebrated with a party.

Chris and Sally Shrubb hosted the milestone in their garden whilst minister Jonathan Beer and about 50 others from the community turned out with their picnics and chairs.

Avis has been a member of the Baptist congregation since moving to Romsey in the late 60’s, with her husband Ken and young family.

Ken passed away in 2008 and she still lives in the family home with her son Colin. Many of her family live close and support her.

Avis was a member of The Towns Women's Guild for many years and is a member of Romsey Blind Club. She is a well known figure around the town, and pre-covid attended the Abbey URC lunches,, Abbey Parish lunch, Age Concern and RBC Thursday Fellowship meetings. She is looking forward to getting back to her busy social life.

The centenarian was very proud of her knitting achievements , helping to create a cover for a bollard in the first ‘yarn bomb’ display.

She also knitted hats for charity, until her eyesight impeded her efforts.

A spokesperson for Romsey Baptist Church said: "We all wish her good health for the future. Avis proudly showed off her card from The Queen, amongst many others from family and friends and cut the cake for her birthday tea."