Eva’s secret to a long life....a g&t and fish and chips!

No-one could argue with her either because Eva celebrated her 100th birthday last Saturday.

There was a family gathering on the big day and Eva was content to let others take over the organisation.

Had she drawn up the itinerary herself, it would probably have featured a trip to Skegness for fish and chips - with, of course, a g&t to round things off!

Eva is a real character and retains a terrific sense of humour which she says is another key to her longevity.

She explains: “I like a good laugh and there’s nothing wrong with a g&t. In fact, one isn’t enough!

“It’s not done me any harm. Anyway, I tell my carers that it’s only water so I manage to get away with it!”

Eva was born in Croydon in 1915 when events were dominated by the First World War.

She had elder brothers and sisters and recalls some of her relatives lost their lives in the conflict.

After school, Eva worked in an accounts office and won awards for her speed on machines which had just been invented to speed up the counting process.

She adds: “They were all the rage at the time but they became obsolete years ago.

“It’s a lot different now with all these modern computers and things.

“I wouldn’t know where to start.

“It’s the same with everything. There’s a lot of changes - and not all of them have been for the better.”

After marrying, Eva lived in Suffolk and moved to the Woodhall Spa area a few years ago to be closer to her family.

She said: “I do have carers who come and help every day but it’s nice to be with my family. I try to keep as active as I can and if you ask me why I’ve lived so long, it’s because I’m naughty!”

Apart from trips to the sea-side, Eva loves to visit shops in Woodhall Spa and Horncastle, which she describes as ‘lovely places’.

She is also happy watching the wild life in the back garden of her home - or reading the latest thriller novel.

Eva adds: “I know I’m lucky. I’ve got my health and my family. I couldn’t be happier.”