Former milliner Deborah 'Vera' Cohen celebrates 100th birthday

Deborah Cohen celebrated becoming a centenarian this month by celebrating with her family, friends, and caregivers.

Mrs Cohen, who is fondly known by those close to her as 'Vera', lives in Watford with her son and daughter, with further care provided by a homecare company.

On reaching the milestone and receiving a letter from the Queen, Mrs Cohen said: "I have had a very busy life - it goes so quickly. I’m so lucky to have reached 100, but I am beginning to feel old now.

"I still have regular visits from my hairdresser, as keeping up my appearance is very important to me."

Vera and her son Norman. Credit: Home Instead Watford

The great-grandmother was born on August 1 1921 in Stoke Newington in north London. She went to Church Street School where she would meet her late husband, Harold.

They married in 1946 in Cricklewood and went on to have two children, Norman and Pamela.

Harold died in 1979 and Mrs Cohen helped provide for her family by working as a milliner in a shop in Bond Street.

Vera Cohen on her wedding day in 1946 when she married her late husband Harold

Mrs Cohen later moved to Stanmore before relocating to Hertfordshire to live with her children.

Her caregiver, Angie from Home Instead Watford, said: "Vera is still very mobile and always happy. When I go into her room in the morning with a cup of tea, she gives me the biggest smile - I’m not sure if it is me or the tea!?

"It’s an absolute pleasure to work with such a beautiful person like Vera."

Vera pictured with caregiver Ali

Her son Norman added: "My mum is still a star, making us all laugh and keeping us great company. She was an amazing cook, and used to make a fantastic roast beef dinner.

"Congratulations to her for reaching 100 - she doesn’t look a day over 21!"