A WOMAN who was trained to operate anti-aircraft guns during the Second World War has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Kathleen Patricia Pengelly, nee Horsley, was born in Wells Lane, Malton, on March 2, 1924.

Known as Pat, she worked as a photographer in York before the war and later on, wrote articles for a camera magazine.

Pat was a serving WREN during the Second World War, in Plymouth, where she was trained to operate anti-aircraft guns. Her late husband, Peter, served in the Royal Navy and was involved in several battles, including the sinking of the Bismarck and the Scharnhorst.

After the war, Pat raised her family in Darlington and then they moved to Wykeham in 1968.

After her husband died, Pat lived in Thornton le Dale for over 20 years, living independently until the age of 95.

She learnt to drive in her sixties and passed her test first time at 64. Pat enjoyed painting, reading, seeing friends, history, gardening, yoga and throwing supper parties for family. She was a member of the Yorkshire Country Women’s Association (YCA).

Pat celebrated her 100th birthday, at the Four Seasons Care Home in Saltburn, with cake, a telegram from the King and a party.

Family members present included her two daughters Suzanne and Barbara, her son in laws David and Peter, grandchildren, Jason, Rebecca and Rachael, with Matthew and Paul and great grandchildren, Isaac and Henry.