Eleanor Llewellyn will be 100 on Sunday

A pensioner who survived a fire at her home three years ago is to receive a special visit from the mayor of Neath to mark her 100th birthday.

Eleanor Llewellyn escaped from her home when a tragic blaze - which took the lives of her two neighbours - spread into her attic in May 2000.

Mrs Llewellyn, who has lived in Crynant for almost 70 years, was woken by another neighbour John Segadelli, who raised the alarm by knocking on her window.

After the fire, which Mrs Llewellyn described as a "terrific shock", she was moved to a flat in the village.

On Thursday, Neath Mayor Colin Morgan will attend a special party held in her honour.

"He is coming because I am 100 on Sunday," said Mrs Llewellyn.

"Mind you, I look 100, so I may as well show myself," she added.

Little party

Close friend Barbara Davies said Mrs Llewellyn was originally from the Rhondda, but had lived in Crynant since about 1932.

Her mind is as sharp as ever and her memory is excellent Friend Barbara Davies

"She is having a little party - the mayor is coming and she has invited a few friends," she said.

Mrs Davies added that Mrs Llewellyn's son was also returning from Leicester to attend the celebrations.

Mrs Davies said she had dealt with the trauma of the fire very well.

"She has been marvellous," said Mrs Davies.

"Her mind is as sharp as ever and her memory is excellent," she added.

Mayor Morgan is looking forward to the event

But Mrs Llewellyn said she would not return to her old home, which is currently being rebuilt.

"I am not going back to the house and am fine in the flat now," she said.

Mayor Colin Morgan said he was excited about the party.

"I look forward to going along - it is always a delight to speak to people and hear what they think of life in general," he said.

"The celebrations are always very special occasions," he added.