A MONMOUTH resident who remembers Peace Day 1918 celebrated her 103rd birthday last Friday (24th January), surrounded by family and friends.

Amy Winifred Hawkins nee Evans, known as Win, was born on 24th January 1911 and lives with her daughter Rozi.

Originally from Aberdovey Street, Splott, Win moved to Newport aged three and became actively involved in dance, pantomime and took part in the Royal Gwent Carnivals. She even played the mandolin.

Win started work at the age of 15 and went on to work in Littlewoods as a display artist.

Win married George Martin Hawkins, a sign writer and commercial artist when she was 26. They were married for 59 years before Mr Hawkins passed away.

Win vividly remembers Peace Day 1918. She said: "I was seven years old when peace was declared. I was in school at the time and remember being in Class Two. The hall was covered with signs announcing Peace Day."

Mrs Hawkins has one daughter, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Win is still very close to her sister, aged 94, who is the youngest of Win's siblings and referred to by Win as "the baby of the family."

Win celebrated her birthday at The Bell in Skenfrith and was visited by Mayor Jeana Hall, who presented Win with a card and flowers.