The King has sent a 100th birthday card to a delighted resident of a Gorleston care home.

Nel Wilson, who turned 100 on Thursday, was surrounded by family members and staff at The Gables care home, as she received a birthday card from King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla.

"Isn't that lovely," Mrs Wilson said as she was handed the card.

"We'll get that framed. I'm elated to receive it."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The birthday card Mel Wilson received from King Charles and Queen Camilla.The birthday card Mel Wilson received from King Charles and Queen Camilla. (Image: James Weeds)

The centenarian read the card from the King and added it to the collection of birthday cards, balloons and cake which adorned her room overlooking the sea.

When asked how she felt about reaching the grand age of 100, Mrs Wilson simply said: "It's nice."

Originally from Stockton-on-Tees, Mrs Wilson worked part of her life as a shop assistant.

In 1942, she married Raymond while he was in the Royal Air Force.

They moved to Hopton after Mr Wilson retired 50 years ago.

"We had a caravan in the village and had been coming for holidays for years," Mrs Wilson said.

"And when Raymond retired, we thought, why not?"

Mrs Wilson said she had "a lot of determination" to see her 100th birthday.

She said: "I've had a happy life and I have lots of memories.

"But there's still one person I am missing."

Mr Wilson died in 2003.

Joined by her daughter Beryl, son Ray and daughter-in-law Barbara, Mrs Wilson continued her birthday celebrations with a day out in the town and a meal at The Cliff Hotel.

"I can't dance, but I am going out for dinner," she said with a smile.

"And we're having a party at home when I get back."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Nel Wilson (centre) celebrated her 100th birthday with her daughter-in-law Barbara (left), son Ray, and daughter Beryl Chesson.Nel Wilson (centre) celebrated her 100th birthday with her daughter-in-law Barbara (left), son Ray, and daughter Beryl Chesson. (Image: James Weeds)

Mrs Wilson will be going out for another meal with her family on Sunday.

"Mum took good care of herself," said Beryl Chesson, Mrs Wilson's 76-year-old daughter.

"And she was independent until the age of 94. Since then, The Gables has taken good care of her, and we thank them for her being with us today.

"Mum is very much loved and has lots of family coming to see her."

Mrs Wilson said of her 100th birthday: "It's been a nice day, and I am glad to be here."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Nel Wilson with her card from the King and Queen Consort.Nel Wilson with her card from the King and Queen Consort. (Image: James Weeds)