A woman who worked as an ambulance driver during the Second World War has celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Joan Axten from Prestwood has travelled the world and worked in a large variety of jobs throughout her lifetime, but settled earlier this month to celebrate the special landmark.

Described as one of the most amazing people in the world by her granddaughter Lisa Belcher, many relatives and friends joined together for her birthday party.

Unfortunately, Mrs Axten had been temporarily hospitalised after suffering a fall a few weeks before her big day, but medical staff allowed her to go home on August 14 to welcome her guests.

One of her five grandchildren, Lisa Belcher, said: “She was well enough and we were allowed to take her home for the day and about 15 to 20 of her friends, who are all about 90 or 100, came along.

“We had an old fashioned tea party and it was a really lovely day. We also had a cake made for her and all of the family came along.”

Mrs Axten still lives at home and is one of the most sprightly 100-year-olds despite being completely blind, her family said.

She has lived at the same property in The Glebe, Prestwood, almost since birth, but has travelled the world over the years.

Ms Belcher said: “She has lived a very varied life and was a female ambulance driver in the war and at one point was a chauffeur to quite a high-ranking person within the Forces.

“When the war finished she became a nanny for quite a prestigious local family and she did that for many years and was very close with the young girl that she looked after and others in the family.

“She travelled around the world with them first-class and has seen many parts of the world.

“She kept in touch with the daughter and she even came along for the birthday party.”

Ms Belcher added: “She didn't marry until later in life, and lost her husband quite young, but has always had a big family.

“She’s sadly gone totally blind, but other than that she is normally very fit and healthy. A lot of 100-year-olds wouldn't be as lively as she is, she is absolutely amazing.”

During her birthday party, Mrs Axten received a card from the Queen and many presents from her large family, including her five grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and five great, great grandchildren.