Britain's oldest woman turns 112 and reveals her secret to a long life
Britain’s oldest woman has celebrated her 112th birthday and told how her secret to a long life has been fresh air and walking.
Lilian Priest, who lived through both world wars, marked the milestone with a piece of cake and a card from the Queen.
She was also treated to a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday at the care home where she lives.
Lilian was born in Monmouthshire, South Wales, on November 7, 1908.
She played tennis into her 80s and liked to “walk everywhere”.
Her daughter Wendy Richmond-Jones was allowed to visit Lilian, despite Covid-19 restrictions.
She said: “She has always been very active and walked a great deal having grown up in the Welsh mountain air.
"I think it is an amazing achievement.
"Mum is an inspiration to us all. She has always been positive and not one to give in and we are all very proud of her.
“Mum was very pleased to receive her card from the Queen and many birthday greetings from family and friends.”
Lilian, who moved to Bournemouth at the age of 18 to work in a B&B, celebrated her birthday at York House care home in nearby Swanage.
Manager Carol Carter said: “She stood up and made a speech to thank everyone.”
Great-gran Lilian became Britain’s oldest person last month after the death of Joan Hocquard, who was born eight months before her.
Husband Arthur, who she married in 1937 and travelled the world with, died in 2000.
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