Cumbrian woman Lillian Barker celebrates 100th birthday

Lillian Barker, who has lived in Cockermouth all her life, will mark her 100th birthday on Saturday February 3.

Lillian never married, perhaps the secret behind her long life, and she was a keen bowler in her younger years. 

She now lives in her flat in Cockermouth and is helped out regularly by nurses from Bellcare, who offer a wide range of services for elderly and disabled persons throughout North and West Cumbria.

According to senior carer Helen, Lillian was 'absolutely over the moon' when she received the card from King Charles and Camilla earlier this week.

She said: "She was absolutely over the moon. She'd mentioned it a few times leading up to it, but obviously with the Queen passing, I don't think she thought she was going to get a card. She was chuffed to bits when it arrived."

Turning 100 might be a significant occasion but Lillian prefers a more relaxed birthday these days, and will likely just have a few visitors tomorrow to celebrate the big day. 

Helen added: "She will have a few people popping in and out on the day, but I don't think there will be a big party. I'm not sure she'd like a big party, she loves to just sit and chill in her armchair."

Lillian always has a smile on her face (Image: Supplied)

Lillian loves animals, and has plenty of teddy bears to keep her company, but she loves welcoming nurses from Bellcare round for 'a good chin wag'. 

She is likely to be visited by her niece and nephew, a friend, and some of the Bellcare nurses on Saturday.

Leaving the flat is no longer possible for Lillian due to frailty, but she is more than content sitting in her armchair, watching her two favourite TV shows, Lingo and Tipping Point.

When asked about the secret behind Lillian's long life, Helen replied: "She will probably tell you to smile, that's the key to being happy. She always says to me, don't be sad, keep a smile on your face."