103-year-old reveals secret to her long life - swimming

Margaret Warburton is a resident at Colne View care home in Dame Mary Walk, Halstead.

And the healthy centenarian attributes her long life to being an avid swimmer.

She was joined by residents and team members at the care home to toast the special occasion.

The care home was also filled with cake, balloons and a video call with family as the team went above and beyond to ensure Margaret enjoyed her birthday in style.

As a former member of the Salvation Army, Margaret was also delighted to receive a virtual performance from the band which had been recorded especially for her.

When asked what her secret to a long and happy life was, Margaret simply replied “to swim”.

Margaret used to be a keen swimmer and swam well in to her 90s.

She said: “It’s good for your lungs and improves your breathing.

“I didn’t think I would ever live to be 103, it’s amazing.

“I had a wonderful time celebrating my birthday with my Colne View family, and the performance from the Salvation Army was the icing on the cake as they have played such a huge part in my life.”

Razvan Stanbeca, home manager at Colne View, added: “We love a party here at Colne View and Margaret’s birthday truly was an occasion to celebrate.

“From enjoying a slice of cake to tapping our feet along to the music, we all had a wonderful time celebrating this special milestone.”

Margaret, who was one of five children, was born in London and her parents were both Salvation Army officers.

Margaret’s family moved to Wales during her school years where she spent most of her childhood.

After leaving school, she served as an officer of The Salvation Army for eight years before moving back to London to work in the telegraph office for the Post Office.

Margaret was a keen swimmer in her younger years and won several awards and trophies in the sport as a child.

She is also a talented pianist who still plays and she took her piano with her to Colne View when she moved in three years ago.