A daily glass of wine is one secret of long life says New Milton centenarian Pat Dartnell

A POSITIVE mindset, exercise, holidays, and a daily glass of wine are the secrets of long life according to Pat Dartnell who has just celebrated her 100th birthday this week at a New Milton care home.

Looking pretty in pink, Pat enjoyed a tipple with family and friends at Kingfishers, where she even welcomed a niece who had made the journey from the US to mark her aunt’s momentous birthday.

Born in South Wales in 1922, just four years after the end of the First World War, Pat grew up with her three sisters.

Pat’s earliest childhood memories are of the trio cycling to school and going for lots of healthy walks together.

During the Second World War, Pat became a volunteer helping her community.

In 1952 she married Les Dartnell, and the couple spent more than half a century together, enjoying holidays and travel in Europe, with Italy holding especially fond memories for Pat.

The couple decided to move to the New Forest after retiring having fallen in love with the area during frequent visits to Les’s brother, who lived in Brockenhurst.

Her landmark birthday was celebrated with cards, flowers, and cakes with fellow residents during an afternoon tea party.

Rose Arcellana, companionship team leader at the home, said: “When we asked Pat for any tips on living to a great age, she was quick to say you should always try to enjoy life, stay active and be optimistic.

“She said how much she enjoyed a social life, her holidays abroad and keeping fit through swimming and athletics. A daily glass of white wine, usually before lunch, was another of her recommendations. She’s also from a family with a history of long living so that has helped too.”

Rose added: “She is such a lovely lady with a highly positive attitude to life. Even at 100 years old, she enjoys being active and taking part in gentle exercise. She is a regular at our seated aerobics and yoga.”