Don't do anything extreme, advises centenarian

A 100-year-old woman who has taken part in the same weekly exercise class for the last 20 years has attributed her long life to simple healthy habits.

As well as celebrating her centenary with family and friends, Lillian Pike marked her 100th birthday by attending her regular Stretch and Flex class at the Isle of Man's National Sports Centre.

Reflecting on her long life, she said her best memories were times with her children, with fond memories of family holidays in their Volkswagen Caravanette.

She said the key to a long life was to "keep fit, eat properly, and don't drink too much alcohol".

Lillian said she was "very proud of my family"and that she had been "overwhelmed" by all of the birthday messages she had received.

"I've never ever expected such an outcry of happiness for me - it's been lovely," she said.

For the past two decades Lillian has attended the weekly exercise class.

She said the key to a long life was nothing groundbreaking, only leading simple healthy habits.

In a nutshell, she advised: "Just don't do anything extreme, you know?"

Elizabeth Corran, who runs the fitness class, said Lillian was "a true inspiration to me and everyone who attends the class

"She is full of energy with a positive outlook on life and everything she does - this just shows that no-one is too old to exercise.

"She's one amazing lady and proof that exercise helps maintain an independent lifestyle - this is why I love my job!"

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