A 105-year-old Horndean resident has revealed her secret to living a long and happy life.

Dorothy Creighton, a resident at Pear Tree Court, said the secret is to “eat humbugs, drink tea and don’t stress – bad things will go away!” She shared her unusual advice to mark another milestone birthday while celebrating with those nearest and dearest to her.

The Pear Tree Court team organised a family get together in the home’s bar area with cake, balloons and afternoon tea.

Aimee Sparks, home Manager, said: “We were so excited to celebrate such a joyous day with Dorothy. It was amazing to mark this tremendous milestone with her and hear her very unique advice for living a long and happy life. It was lovely to see how happy she was to be surrounded by those closest to her on the day.”

Dorothy was born on September 11, 1919 in Bristol. One of three, she finished school and began her first job working as a hairdresser. When World War II broke out, she joined the Land Army, where she met her soon-to-be husband.

They went on to have two daughters and a son, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Dorothy moved into Pear Tree Court last year, where she enjoys chatting to everyone around her and regularly visiting the home’s sweet cart and coffee shop.

Aimee added: “Here at Pear Tree Court, we centre everything we do around our ethos of ensuring residents live active and fulfilling lives and Dorothy’s 105th birthday celebration was no exception.”