THE family of a Whitchurch woman have spoken of their delight and amazement as she prepares to turn 100 next week.

Joan Heath will mark her centenary year on Tuesday, May 9.

She has already received a card from King Charles III to congratulate her on reaching the milestone.

Tracy Heath, who's husband, Tim, is Joan's grandson, confirmed family and friends would be getting together on Sunday, May 14 at Whitchurch Cricket Club in Heath Road to celebrate the milestone.

She said: "It is unbelievable really. She can't quite believe it herself I don't think.

"She is definitely the first in our family to reach 100 years of age.

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"We are having a get-together with family and friends on Sunday, May 14 in Whitchurch Cricket Club. We are having an afternoon tea party for her.

"That will be lovely."

She added: "I have known her for more than 30 years and I have had a lot to do with her."

Tracy mentioned how Joan was shocked when she received her card from King Charles III.

She said: "My father-in-law was there and he was having a cup of tea with her and then the doorbell rang.

"It was good he was there or she wouldn't have answered the door.

"He went to the door and it was the postman and he sighed for the card.

"He realised what it was and he took it into the sitting room with her and her face lit up.

"She said she thought wasn't going to get one and spoke about not being important and said the King wouldn't have the time to write her one.

"So she has that treasured on her table."

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Joan is originally from the West Country and she served in the Women's Land Army during the Second World War.

Tracy said: "She originally comes from Yeovil in Somerset.

"She was in the Land Army and she met her husband who was a Whixall man. Her husband was serving in Somerset with the British Army, I think he was a driver.

"She met him while he was there.

"They set up home in Whixall."

Tracy added: "She was a housewife who went on to bring up three sons, Chris, Phil and Martyn."

"They were married for over 60 years."