Southend great great great grandmother Clara Bugg has turned 108, making her one of the oldest Jewish people in the country.

Mrs Bugg, who lives in Southchurch, Southend, was born on October 15 1905 in Stepney, east London. One of a family of five children, from the age of six to 14 she grew up in the Bevis Marks Orphanage, in Maida Vale.

She went on to have three children, William from her first marriage to William Edge, and John and Peter from her second marriage to Jack Bugg. Her son Peter, now 70, is her full-time carer with daily assistance from carers provided by the local social services.

The deputy mayor of Southend, Cllr Chris Walker, was among many guests visiting her to celebrate her birthday, organised by Peter.

“We had friends and family in and out all day for her it was great. She was on good form and had lots of fun celebrating. Everyone in Southend knows about her, she is well liked by everyone,” he said.

Mrs Bugg took the day in her stride. “I don’t feel any different. I’m thankful that I still have my family around me at my age, it really is quite nice to have my children around still.”

Her great great niece Ros Forman, a member of North West Surrey Reform, said: “Everyone knows her in Southend. She has a great sense of humour.”