Winnifred James, formerly from Bargoed celebrated her 100th birthday this month.
She was born Winnifred Crocker, in Greenfield Street on November 3, 1918.
Mrs James, who is called “Winnie” by family and friends, used to work at the Hanbury Cinema in Bargoed as a teenager in the mid 1930’s.
The building is now owned by one of her great-nephews, Gethyn Mills.
But during the 1970s and 1980s she owned the Helmaen Club in Usk, where she met the likes of Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey, who performed at her club.
Mrs James can also add Prince Charles to the list of famous faces she has met over the years. She met the Prince 42 years ago in 1976.
Prince Charles’ mother, Queen Elizabeth, has recently sent her a letter to wish her a happy 100th birthday.
Mrs James celebrated her centenary with family and friends on November 3. More than 50 people turned up at her house to join in with the celebrations.
Unfortunately her only son, Tony James, passed away earlier this year.
Dan Jones, who is Mrs James’ great-nephew, said: “She is a real character and an amazing lady with a great sense of humour.”
He added: “She has great stories to tell of the old days. There’s never a dull moment when you visit and she always insists on everyone having tea and food.”
Mr Jones, who regularly visits his great-aunt with his family, said: “She is very fond of her eight-year-old great-great-nephew, Lowan Mills.
“He really puts a smile on her face when he visits with his free range eggs from his pet chickens.”
