A woman who has lived for more than 100 years has credited her longevity to the mind sport – bridge.

Lore Lucas celebrated her 103rd birthday, the first since Covid-related restrictions for care homes were lifted, with the help of family and friends at the care home Signature at Elton House in Bushey.

Born in Holland in 1920, she has lived an extraordinary life, living through the Second World War and doing volunteer work.  

Watford Observer: Lore Lucas (left) celebrated with her family and also received a 'visit' from King CharlesLore Lucas (left) celebrated with her family and also received a 'visit' from King Charles (Image: Signature at Elton House)

Asked what the secret is for living to such an impressive age, Lore said: “It has to be bridge.

“If I could, I would play daily, but usually I manage to get at least three games in per week. It is the food of life and better than any meal.

“It’s not only great fun but helps keep me concentrated and my brain engaged.”

Lore arrived in the UK in 1936 with her mother and sister and lived in London when the Second World War broke out in 1939.

After the conflict started, her father suggested that she, her mother, and her sister return to Holland so that they could be together as a family.

The rest of the family returned to Holland, but Lore decided to stay in the UK.

During this time, she met her future husband, Ronald, in London at a sandbag making party.

Watford Observer: Lore celebrated her birthday with the Hertsmere Mayor (right) and the Mayoress (left)Lore celebrated her birthday with the Hertsmere Mayor (right) and the Mayoress (left) (Image: Signature at Elton House)

While Ronald was enlisted in the Pioneer Corps, the two made sure to stay in touch whilst he was away serving.

After the war, the two married in Glasgow in 1946, where she lived until she moved to Bushey in 2019.

While in Glasgow, she assisted her husband with running his business until he passed away, and was heavily involved in charity work, volunteering with the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service for over 20 years, and was a supporter of Jewish Refugee organisations.

Watford Observer: Lore credited her age to playing bridge and volunteeringLore credited her age to playing bridge and volunteering (Image: Signature at Elton House)

Her community contribution was recognised when Lore, aged 90 and still volunteering, was invited to the Royal Garden Party at Holyrood House in Edinburgh.

Karen Fleming, client liaison manager at Signature at Elton House, added: “We were extremely happy to help Lore celebrate such a memorable occasion.

“We are all thinking of taking up bridge so as we can also reach a great age like her.”

Watford Observer: All the residents enjoyed celebrating with LoreAll the residents enjoyed celebrating with Lore (Image: Signature at Elton House)