Neighbours, friends, and fellow parishioners made this Bolton girl's birthday one to remember.

Doreen Lilley, from Smithills, turned 90 on Friday, and those close to her made sure she felt extra special, joining forces outside her house to sing Happy Birthday while observing social distancing.

The 90-year-old said: "All the neighbours, my friends, and my church stood outside to sing to me.

"They've been lovely, they brought banners and it's just been an overwhelming day. I think with being shut in more people have text and sent cards, there must be nigh-on 70 cards in here, I can't believe it.

"It's been non-stop, I've been stood at the window most of the day talking to people through it. I keep thinking this is it but then it starts up again. It's been brilliant"

Mrs Lilley should have been celebrating with her friends and family at a party on Saturday, but the event had to be cancelled.

Despite being widowed 11 years ago, and facing breast cancer and a spinal injury in her later years, Mrs Lilley has never stopped helping others at St Peter's Church.

Sometimes called Doreen the Door, after her time manning the doors of church events, she tries to listen to, pray for, and inspire people when they need it.

Mrs Lilley added: "I have so many wonderful friends and they've been so lovely today.

"I've just been living a day at a time and today has been a day I'll never forget.

"Everybody keeps calling me special which I don't think I am, I'm just like everybody else.

"It really brought some brightness into everything that's happening."