Great Yarmouth care home resident celebrates 100th birthday

But Elsie Smith, who lives at Park House on Alexandra Road in Great Yarmouth, was amazed to receive cards from London, Scotland - and even Oklahoma in the United States.

As the count concluded during her birthday celebrations on Christmas Eve, the final tally was a massive 312 cards.

Residents at Park House care home in Great Yarmouth read Elsie Smith's birthday cards. (Image: Park House Care Home)

There was also a message from the King Charles III and Queen Camilla, as well as special cards from local schoolchildren and the mayor of Great Yarmouth, Councillor Penny Carpenter.

Elsie, who has lived at the care home for just over five years, spent the day itself celebrating with her close family and friends, who are all from the local area.

After returning home, she enjoyed opening and reading all 312 cards with her friends and staff at the home.

READ MORE: Yarmouth's first female taxi driver celebrates her 100th birthday

Elsie Smith with family as she celebrated her 100th birthday at a Great Yarmouth care home. (Image: Park House Care Home)

Manager Maria Prodan said: “On behalf of Elsie, her family, and all of us here at Park House, we would like to say thank you to everyone who took the time and effort to send Elsie a birthday wish.

"After three days of celebrations and reading all the lovely messages from friends, family and the local and wider community, Elsie has thoroughly enjoyed herself.

Elsie Smith's 100th birthday was celebrated at Park House care home in Great Yarmouth on Christmas Eve. (Image: Park House Care Home)

"All that’s left to say is happy 100th birthday Elsie and cheers to a century of knowledge, wisdom and life that you possess.”

Staff at the care home had made the appeal for the cards in early December.

Park House, which is part of the Black Swan Care Group, provides short-term, respite and longer term care and support for up to 26 residents.