CELEBRATION was in the air at the weekend as a Bradford woman celebrated her 100th birthday, surrounded by her family and carers.

Gladys Hainsworth was joined by her children and grandchildren at her home in Highfield Road, Idle, to mark the occasion.

Born in New Street in the village, Gladys’ father Edward Fountain fought at the Battle of the Somme in the First World War, being wounded twice and gassed, and her mother Edith Pickles worked in the local mills.

She went to Idle Church School where her singing talent was spotted at an early age, and at 14 was invited to join Idle and Thackley Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.

Gladys was an active member in the society for more than 50 years, receiving the NODA Gold Bar to mark her dedication.

She was also a member of Bradford Opera Group, the Glenn Singers, and sand in the Idle Baptist Church choir.

She worked as a worsted weaver at Salts Mill and other local mills, and married Stanley Hainsworth in March 1941.

They had two children, Raymond and Celia, and have three grandchildren, Michelle, Paul and Mark, and one great-grandson, Ronan.