A woman who celebrated her 100th birthday at a care home in Sidcup has said refusing to worry has led to a long and happy life.

Lily Cranstone has been a resident at St Margaret’s Residential Home for two years and the milestone was enjoyed on October 9.

Stuart Cranstone said his mum was “overwhelmed and very happy” with the party.

He added: “The staff were wonderful, they all came in to sing happy birthday and they even sang 21 today.

“They had a room for her with decorations and a specially baked cake with a photo of her on it. Some of the residents popped in to say congratulations and they spent some time with her.”

Lily said the secret to a long life was “not to worry about anything, be very sociable and to be as friendly as possible with everyone you meet”.

The grandmother also added that being very active is also a contributing factor. She lived independently before moving into the Sidcup home two years ago.

Lily spent most of her life in Enfield before going to Sidcup to be closer to her son and grandchildren.

She married Bert Cranstone in 1942 who died in 1984.