A party was held in honour of the 100th birthday of a former prisoner of war in Japan.

The birthday party for Singaporean Ivy Matthews took place at Link House in Raynes Park and was organised by staff at the home.

"We make a particular fuss of Ivy because she has no family," said Georgeina Fitzgerald, a senior carer. "She's such a lady and her mannerisms are very genteel. She felt very emotional at the sight of the cake.

"There was lots of singing and dancing and the atmosphere was wonderful.

"The mayor and mayoress of Merton stayed for hours.

"Ivy is on our dementia floor. We believe just because people have dementia it doesn't mean they can't enjoy music, dancing and parties - it is essential stimulation."