At the ripe old age of 101, the vim and vigour that has so characterised Barbara Purves’ century of life has not diminished one ounce.

Celebrating her birthday at New Copford Place Care Home in Copford, the centenarian credited her long and happy life...to men!

Mrs Purves has been married twice and also had a long-term relationship in-between these marriages.

She admits to having been - and still is - both a little bit cheeky and flirty with gentlemen.

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The sprightly centenarian is ready to take on many more years yet and has two daughters, two grandchildren and five great grandchildren with whom to share her anecdotes.

Mrs Purves went to school in Surrey in the 1920s and 1930s and was a very good athlete, she particularly excelled in sports, mainly swimming and tennis.

She became a land girl during the Second World War. 

Then after the war she took up clerical work in offices and card shops and made sure she stayed busy.

Mrs Purves moved to New Copford Place care home when she was 98.

She recalls how she was tempted to go there partly because of the gardens – handy given that she has always been quite green-fingered and keen to pick up a trowel and pull on her gardening overalls.

Gazette: Celebrating in style – carers Amy King and Camilla Korgba with cheeky Barbara Purves who received plenty of presents and flowers on her 101st birthdayCelebrating in style – carers Amy King and Camilla Korgba with cheeky Barbara Purves who received plenty of presents and flowers on her 101st birthday

She said: “I love gardening, it’s always been a hobby of mine and it’s lovely to be able to enjoy the delightful, picturesque grounds.”

And there was plenty more for Mrs Purves to enjoy on her birthday with gifts, cards and a special birthday afternoon tea laid on for her to celebrate the milestone with her many friends and carers.

Daniel Sabau, the care home manager at New Copford Place, said: “Barbara is an amazing woman, always smiling, cheerful and a very proud lady.

“Even when she had problems with her legs that caused her massive pain every time she had her dressings changed, she’d squeeze my hand, but then joke and laugh about it.

“She is quite a character.”