Eating sensibly and having friends have been the secret to one Sidmouth woman’s long life as she celebrates her 100th birthday.

Sidmouth Herald: Jane Wilcox celerating her 100th birthday. Ref shs 12 18TI 0090. Picture: Terry IfeJane Wilcox celerating her 100th birthday. Ref shs 12 18TI 0090. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

Jane Wilcox marked the landmark day on March 22 with friends and family at The Belmont Hotel.

She retired with her husband Gordon to Sidmouth four decades ago after growing up in Northampton and living in Cheshire.

After moving to the town, the former school teacher kept busy with gardening, playing bridge and seeing friends. She even took a trip to Australia to see her family at the age of 91.

Jane said: “Keep healthy and eat sensible food and plenty of exercise. It is also important to have friends - the older you get the more important it is.

Sidmouth Herald: Jane Wilcox celerating her 100th birthday. Ref shs 12 18TI 0090. Picture: Terry IfeJane Wilcox celerating her 100th birthday. Ref shs 12 18TI 0090. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

“I love Sidmouth, you could not choose a better place to live.

“I’ve written to the hotel to say how please we were. It could not have been better - the service and the food was excellent.”