A WOMAN who recently celebrated her 105th birthday has said that the secret to a long life is ballroom dancing.

Eliza Wright, a resident at HC-One’s Dove Court care home in Burnley, recently marked her 105th birthday with a party, reminiscing and spending time with family.

Eliza was born on April 23, 1917, in Burnley. She later married her husband Albert and they had two daughters, Brenda and Linda, and a son, Kenneth.  

When asked what the secret is to her long life, Eliza said, “ballroom dancing”.

Dancing has been a large part of Eliza’s life and she worked as an MC (Master of Ceremonies) setting up dances at Bacup Leisure Hall, which is less than 10 miles away from where Eliza lives now.

Eliza loved to dance and was dancing up until the age of 98 years old.

She has been able to continue her enjoyment of dancing at Dove Court as she enjoys the home’s regular programme of entertainment, including visits and performances from the Sandersons Dance Students.

For the birthday celebrations, a birthday party was organised at the home, with Eliza’s family, friends, and the care team and colleagues at Dove Court.

Stephanie Tillotson, Wellbeing Coordinator at Dove Court, said: “We had a lovely celebration for Eliza’s birthday and all involved enjoyed the party!”