Phyllis becomes oldest to take Wolverhampton's Meals on Wheels at 101

She began taking a hot meal every day from the Meals on Wheels service last month.

Other elderly people are being encouraged to join those who already receive hot meals or afternoon teas every day.

Meals on Wheels aim to help people remain independent wherever possible.

Mrs Coen, who lives in the Goldthorn Hill area of Wolverhampton and was married to Michael for 51 years until his death in December, said: "My social worker came to see me and suggested I start taking Meals on Wheels, and I'm really pleased that she did.

"The meals are not like they used to be, I had seen some many years ago and it put me off a bit. I thought that they were not for me, but the ones that are served nowadays are delicious.

"The drivers are very friendly, and it's also nice to know that I will be having a daily visitor."

Meals on Wheels are currently service to more than 280 people across the city.

Sue Lycett, service manager, said: "I'm delighted that Phyllis is enjoying her meals.

"She's a remarkable lady and very independent. She still lives in her own home – where she has lived since she was 12 – and hopefully having a hot meal delivered on a daily basis will help her keep her independence for even longer"

Council chiefs say the service is proving popular with residents of the city.

City services boss Councillor John Reynolds said: "It is open to everyone and provides customers with hot meals and afternoon teas, as well as frozen meals they can cook in their own time.

"I'm really pleased that Phyllis has joined the growing number of people who have chosen to receive Meals on Wheels, and particularly happy that she's enjoying the food that we're serving up for her."

Users of the service can choose a daily hot dish and dessert, ranging from roast lamb to spicy fried chicken.

Frozen meals are also available.

For information on Meals on Wheels, visit www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/mealsonwheels or call 01902 556677.