THIS centenarian has celebrated a milestone birthday – by taking a ride on Bournemouth's big wheel.

Annie Cardwell, a resident at Colten Care’s Avon Cliff in Bournemouth, originally wanted to take a ride on the helter skelter on the pier.

By the time her birthday arrived the amusement ride was taken down for the winter.

Instead, Annie opted to take a spin on the 115-metre Bournemouth Big Wheel, located on the Pier Approach.

The centenarian admitted to feeling a little apprehensive about the height but was excited to do it.

As she boarded the passenger pod, joined by her daughter Molly Wainwright and son-in-law John, the sound of Stevie Wonder’s 'Happy Birthday' accompanied her on.

She was then treated to three, ten-minute revolutions.

The owners of the attraction, Observation Wheel UK, gifted Annie the ride for free.

Annie spoke about her experience saying: “It was fabulous. It was a little windy up there, but I really enjoyed it. I would do it again any time.”

Annie was born in Batley in Yorkshire in 1919. She and her family moved to Bournemouth in 1962 and she worked in Beales department store right up to the age of 82.

Her earliest memories are of her school days as well as her time working in a factory as a teenager and getting stuck in the snow on her way in one day.

When asked her secret to living a long and healthy life her response was to “be happy”.

Colten Companion Sharon Surgeon said: “Annie is living proof that age is only a number. She is a fun and outgoing lady and really cares for her family and friends.

“I was a bit taken aback when she said what she wanted to do, especially as I knew I would have to accompany her too. But we like to make our residents’ wishes come true and so we did.”

As well as Molly and John, family members came from as far away as Portugal and Canada to help Annie celebrate her special birthday.