A WOMAN who celebrated her 105th birthday claims her secret to long life is "full fat milk, cream and butter" and the odd "tipple of whisky."

Mary Nicholson, who goes by the nickname Polly, celebrated her 105th birthday on January 12 with her family at Elizabeth Court Care Home in Sutton.

Polly lived close to Carr Mill Dam growing up in the 1920s with her two siblings and dad, after her mum died when she was just five-years-old.

St Helens Star:

Polly with her family

A few years later, after her dad remarried, the family moved to Crank Post Office where they provided residents with fresh bread, cakes and pastries that they baked on the premises, with Polly enjoying her time there.

She then went on to work in a shop on Park Road and in the canteen at Pilkingtons until she retired.

On turning the ripe old age of 105, and receiving her second letter from the Queen, Polly said her long life is down to "the full fat milk, cream and butter she was brought up on as well as the fresh air and exercise by walking everywhere, and a tipple of whisky at night time."

Her niece Carole Fouldes, 62 said: "Aunt Polly is marvellous, she really had a good day celebrating her 105th birthday.

St Helens Star:

Polly when she was younger

"She is quite happy that she will get a card from the Queen every year now, as you get one at 100 then every year from 105 and onwards.

"She has enjoyed many holidays abroad and loves anything Scottish, so she has had a good life and it is nice to celebrate that with her."

Happy 105th birthday Polly!

n If you know someone celebrating their 100th...or even their 105th birthday like Polly, call us and let us now on 01744 762711.