A CARLISLE woman has revealed the secrets to her long life after celebrating her 100th birthday.

Lillian Kennedy, was born in Great Broughton near Cockermouth on November 11, 1919, the first year of Remembrance, a day that will never be forgotten by her family.

Since then, the 100-year-old led a jam-packed life, working for several factories, singing, raising a family, and travelling the world.

The sixth of nine children, Lillian worked in several factories in Carlisle, including Ferguson Brothers, Kangol’s seatbelt factory and Morton Sundour Fabrics.

After retiring at the age of 65, Lillian didn’t decide to wind down her activities, but instead decided to take flight, and explore the world, jetting off to sunnier climbs in Crete, Gibraltar, Malta, Rhodes and Tenerife.

A keen singer, she was also part of The Victorians singing group, and was involved in a number of performances in Carlisle.

Speaking at a special 100th birthday party, attended by friends and family at Greysteads Hotel by Dalston Road on Monday, Lillian said: “Thank you for all the support and all the friendship over the years, and all the people who have been there to make my life as rich as it has been.

“I’ve had a very long and very full life, and I’m still very happy.”

In terms of the secrets to reaching her 100th milestone, Lillian added: “Work hard and laugh.”