A Suffolk care home resident has reflected on the secret to her long life amid her centenary celebrations.

East Anglian Daily Times: Elsie Bearcroft reads her birthday card from the Queen with daughter Julia Burton Picture: LUCY TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHYElsie Bearcroft reads her birthday card from the Queen with daughter Julia Burton Picture: LUCY TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY (Image: Lucy Taylor Photography)

Else Bearcroft attributed her long and happy life to having lots of interests and to “always enjoy it”.

Born in Ipswich just before the end of the First World War, Elsie has lived at Mills Meadow c in Framlingham for the past 24 years.

The Care UK home helped Elsie mark her 100th birthday with a high tea in the garden attended by friends and family and a performance from nostalgic rock and roll cover band Beaten Track.

Elsie, who had five children with her husband George, and used to enjoy tandem bicycle rides around the countryside as well as painting landscapes, says her love for the outdoors has not wavered.

She enjoys spending time in the home’s garden and praised the Care UK team for bringing “fun and excitement” to the residents.

Home manager Marie Reeve said: “As Elsie has lived at the home for 20 years and has celebrated birthdays with us in the past, we wanted to make her 100th birthday extra special.

“It was lovely that family and friends joined the birthday girl for high tea as Elsie loves spending time in the gardens. The musical performance was also great, everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves - especially Elsie!”

Julia Burton, one of Elsie’s daughters, said: “Choosing a care home for mum was a daunting process but we all knew – mum included – that Mills Meadow was the perfect place for her.

“I can’t express how pleased I am with the care mum has received over the years and want to thank the team for making Mills Meadow the fantastic place it is.”

For more information on Mills Meadow email home manager Marie Reeve or call 01728 888 236.