Pensioners at a York community unit were among those flying the flag for the Queen Mother's landmark celebration today.

About 20 people who attend Acomb Gables, in Oak Rise, Acomb, for day care were joining in a big birthday bash this afternoon.

Later about 20 residents living at the unit were to be joined by their carers to celebrate the Queen Mum's centenary.

The lounge at the centre - a York NHS Trust service for elderly people with mental health problems - was decked out with bunting and a special cake was baked.

Information from the group's research into the Queen Mother's life has been mounted on the walls.

Music man Les Hodgson was leading them in a sing-along.

Gables manager Linda Schumacher said: "We decided to do something special to celebrate the Queen Mother's birthday as this age group has a special interest in the Royals."

People at sister unit Meadowfields, in Tadcaster Road, held celebrations of their own.

At Peppermill Court, a community unit for the elderly, in Ramsay Close, Huntington Road, about 30 day care users and residents had worked tirelessly to make special birthday bonnets to wear during their celebrations this afternoon.

The unit was decked with red, white and blue decorations and banners and the group tucked into a specially-baked cake and watched a video on the Queen Mother to mark the occasion.

Day care user Dorreen Ward said: "We have all worked really hard to make it a special celebration for the Queen Mother."

PICTURE: Residents and staff at Acomb Gables Nursing Home, in Oak Risp, York, celebrate the Queen Mum's 100th birthday. Pictured in the foreground are, from left, Jessica Evans and Manager Linda Schumacher