A 100-YEAR-OLD says keeping fit and healthy is the key to a long life – after celebrating his landmark birthday with a pint.

Tom Bollard, from Newton-le-Willows celebrated his special day earlier this month by raising a glass with his son and says he is looking forward to receiving his letter from the Queen.

Tom, who receives care in his home by Local Solutions’ Homecare service, moved back to England from Ireland at 27 – after meeting his wife Catherine and worked on a farm in Newton-le-Willows with his cousin.

Eventually Tom had to move from the farm and became a caretaker and groundskeeper until the age of 82.

Although Tom has support from Local Solutions’ carers twice a day, he is still very independent and likes to get out as much as he can, going for a walk around the block for exercise chatting with the care staff

Michelle McDonough, Homecare Manager at Local Solutions said: “He’s beautiful person, who is always happy and has a sweet tooth so he always has sweets and chocolates.

“Staff always enjoy going to see him and they always have a cup of tea when they are there.”