For most people about to reach their 100th birthday, the perfect way to celebrate the day would be receiving a message from the Queen surrounded by their family, a birthday cake and a small party. But sprightly Minnie Ford, above, is also planning to live

For most people about to reach their 100th birthday, the perfect way to celebrate the day would be receiving a message from the Queen surrounded by their family, a birthday cake and a small party.

But sprightly Minnie Ford, above, is also planning to live it up with a cruise around Europe on the QE2.

Until last Christmas, Minnie lived at her home in Littleport, but recently moved in with her daughter, Irene Nimmo, at her home in Chittering.

Last week, Minnie was shopping in Cambridge for her trip and not one, but two parties.

Born in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, Minnie was one of three sisters and seven brothers. She married in 1929 and Irene was her only child, Minnie also has three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren who will all help her to celebrate.