A WOMAN who survived against all odds after being hit by a taxi, days before her 98th birthday, celebrated her centenary today.

Selina Boyce spent weeks in hospital after a taxi reversed into her, knocking her down yards from her home in Atkyns Court, Headington, Oxford, in 2007.

Mrs Boyce, pictured with her great grandchildren, from left, Emmy Thornton, Ben Thornton, and Lousie Mellis and daughter Pat Knight, said she was lucky to be alive and the accident had made her realise the importance of living life to the full.

She celebrated her birthday with her friends and family — including her six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren — at her home at Townsend House, Barton.

Care home staff had decked out the dining room with balloons, cards and flowers especially for the occasion.

She said: “I was so lucky to survive, it was very bad.

“I think everyone should make the best of life and live life to the full. Don’t worry about anything, it all works out.”

Her youngest daughter, Pat Knight, 67, said: “When the accident happened she lost her confidence so she went to Townsend House. She has settled in so well and she loves it.”

Mrs Boyce, who grew up in Burford as one of 13 children, said she never expected to live to 100 – but thoroughly recommended it.

She added: “I don’t feel 100, I feel about 80 or 90.”

Mrs Boyce and her husband Cyril lived in Campbell Road, East Oxford. After his death 21 years ago from cancer Mrs Boyce moved to Atkyns Court, Headington.