PUPILS of former Forest headteacher Miss Joyce Morse gathered on Saturday (December 16) to celebrate her 100th birthday.

And there will be more celebrations at the end of the month at Mayhill Methodist Church where she still plays the organ.

Miss Morse was born on December 29 1917 and became headteacher at Longhope School in 1948.

Former pupils were among around 100 people who attended a birthday celebration at the Latchen Rooms in Longhope on Saturday.

She said: “Although I was Gloucester born and bred I did enjoy country life and the people of Longhope were very welcoming.”

Before moving permanently to the village, Miss Morse, who retired in 1979, drove every day from her home in Gloucester to Longhope.

She is remembered as “a very good teacher but strict” and for her trademark stripey tops.

Roger Jones, who was evacuated to Longhope from Bristol, told of the page in the punishment book which listed eight of his misdemeanours.

He said: “She was a very good teacher but strict. She always wore stripey tops.”

Miss Morse will spend part of her birthday on Friday, December 29, playing the organ at May Hill Methodist church.

She says she has no intention of “retiring’ and added: “We have a loyal congregation and I hope to play for many more years yet. I don’t feel 100.

“I eat plain, simple food and take each day as it comes. I count my blessings, so just keep calm and carry on.

“The church is part of village life which means everyone is welcome.”