An East London resident who recently celebrated her 100th birthday last month credits sleep and exercise as the secret to her long life.
Ellen “Nell” Parry, who has lived at Trillo Court in Ilford for 17 years, became a centenarian in September and enjoyed a party thrown for her by friends and family. And of course, she received a card from the Queen:
“I don’t know how she knew it was my birthday!” Nell laughed.
Born in Canning Town, Nell has six daughters (one of whom is living in Australia), 17 grandchildren and over 20 great-grandchildren!
Nell worked at Loins teashop in Aldgate for many years which is where she met her husband:
“He was in the air force and they all used to be on the other side of the rail track. We used to lean out of the window and talk to them. We got married but I can’t remember when. My brain isn’t working so good anymore!”
Nell says that her long life is down to laughing, exercise and sleep.
“I have always exercised. I used to do walking, stretching, that kind of thing. And sleep. I love sleep!
“[My birthday] was nice. I had food and cake and the family was there. Not that I remember most of it mind you! I’m getting old, you know.”
