A WOMAN is preparing to celebrate her 100th birthday - with the help of her big sister!

Ethel Gunning, who hits three figures tomorrow, has not only followed in her sister's footsteps in reaching the milestone, but their father's too.

Florence Gunning, 102, thought her little sister wouldn't live to see the milestone following a stroke earlier this year, but Ethel proved she had Gunning blood running through her veins and will turn 100 like their father, Charles.

The sisters, who have lived in Darwen since birth, said they have been inseparable and never thought they would live this long.

They left school at 13 and started work together in mills in Darwen, then worked in a cellar making ammunition during the war.

Their father, Charles Gunning, died more than 20 years ago before his 101st birthday.

Ethel, of Oldfield House, Hawkshaw Avenue, Darwen, said: "Every year we would make our own birthday cakes.

"I remember the first war. We were hungry.

"They had flour for baking, but it was horrible.

"This year we are having a tea party, but we have decided not to exchange presents this year.

"I don't want presents any more."

Ethel and Florence have lived together for the past 100 years and usually let their birthdays pass them by.

The most memorable for both was Ethel's 21st birthday.

Florence, also of Oldfield House, said: "Ethel is my baby sister. We keep each other going.

"But I never thought Ethel would live to 100.

"There have been big changes in the world, but it is nice that we are still together.

"Ethel had a party for her 21st birthday and I bought her a gold ring for her bottom drawer - the pieces you collect for your wedding day.

"But neither of us married. If you can't find the right one, then there's no point."

Ethel added: "Life couldn't be better. We have a lot to be thankful for."