FORMER mill worker and barmaid Martha Hatton of Atherton celebrated her 95th birthday in style on Wednesday - by going for a quick dip!

For Martha, who once worked in the spinning mills of the town before joining the staff at the old Queen's Arms in Atherton, works out twice a week at Atherton Baths.

She didn't take up the hobby seriously until she was 83 but now tries not to miss her regular sessions where she is taken by car by her neighbour, Peter McCoy.

And even after suffering from a broken knee which kept her in hospital for four months, and two cataract operations, sprightly Martha, advises the sport to anyone.

She said: "I started swimming when I was on holiday in Blackpool with my grand-daughter. It was raining so we were told we could use the pool in a local hotel. Since then I have become interested more and more and except for when I had my operations I have kept going, thanks to my neighbour Peter.

"I would recommend going to the baths to any older person because it keeps you fit and keeps the muscles toned up. It's good exercise for anyone but you have to keep going. Even just moving about in the water is good for you, and I will keep going as long as I can."

Martha, a widow for 25 years, who was once a member of St John's Ambulance Brigade, spends the rest of her time reading, knitting, and "chatting to anyone who wants to listen"

She who has two surviving children, six grand-children and four great-grandchildren,

Happy birthday Martha!

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