Why the fuss? Woman, 107, says birthday no big deal

Irene Lane turned 107 years old on Sunday

When Irene Lane was born, World War One was still being fought and David Lloyd George was prime minister.

Twenty-two more prime ministers and another world war later, Mrs Lane has celebrated her 107th birthday at Heathbrook House Care Home in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire.

But according to her 77-year-old son Bob Lane, she does not believe it to be that big of a deal.

"Her exact words were 'I can't understand what all the fuss is about'," Mr Lane told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

Like all good birthdays, there was cake

Mrs Lane was born in Birmingham and worked as a seamstress in the Moseley area before marrying her husband Albert in 1940.

She became a stay-at-home mum when she had her two children and her son described has as "such a lovely mother" who loved to sew.

"She's always been prepared to do something for others, even if it's meant she has lost out herself on things," Mr Lane added.

Mrs Lane's son Bob described her as "such a lovely mother"

As well as her two children, she also has six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

"It's very special, she can't believe she is a great-great grandmother, but she's so proud," Mr Lane said.

Her husband died in 2012 and Mr Lane said she "took it quite badly at first" as they had been married for 72 years.

"They had a very good marriage. They were together 72 years so it must have been good. There were tough times but they weathered them together," he added.

But Mr Lane said his mother always showed great resolve and was always ready with a "friendly smile".

Irene Lane was born in Birmingham in December 1917

Asked the secret to her longevity, Mr Lane said she had never smoked and did not drink a lot of alcohol, although she would occasionally indulge in some her husband's homemade wine.

As part of her birthday celebrations, Mrs Lane has also received cards and visitors from North Bromsgrove High School and Catshill Middle School.

Members of her family have been visiting her throughout the week with the main celebration taking place at the care home on Sunday.

Mrs Lane's family - including her 77-year-old son - helped her celebrate her special day

She was also due to receive her fourth birthday message from the Royal Family, which Mr Lane said would be a "nice touch" for her.

He said she remained modest, adding: "She doesn't see herself as someone who's up on a pedestal."