AFTERNOON naps are the secret to a long and happy life, a Basildon nan has revealed as she celebrated her 101st birthday.

Dorothy Violet Davis, marked her birthday in style with an afternoon of dancing at Larchwood Care Cameron House care home, in Plumleys, Basildon.

She was joined by her son Roger, the deputy mayor of Basildon Yetunde Adeshile, other care home residents, and her favourite entertainer Charlie Regan.

Charlie put on a special performance for Dorothy serenading her with his covers of 60s, 70s, and 80s hits.

Following the performance and the cutting of a 101 cake, Dorothy and the rest of the guests enjoyed a buffet of her favourite food.

When asked about the secret to her longevity, Dorothy reflected on the simplest of pleasure, which included “sleeping whenever she wanted - including regular afternoon naps”.

She also advised everyone to “take each day as it comes”.

Charly Cooper, manager at Cameron House, said: “It was fantastic to have everyone join us for Dorothy’s 101st birthday party here.

“The whole event was a celebration of Dorothy and the joy she’s brought to everyone who knows her, from boogying to her favourite songs, to enjoying her favourite bites and hearing all about her life and family.

“Dorothy’s advice to take each day as it comes is something we should all try and remember in these busy times. I hope that if I get to 101, I will have lived such an amazing and happy life.”

The 101-year-old, who has been a Basildon resident for more than 40 years, lived through an incredibly transformative century, where she spent more than 70 years married to her husband, John whom she called Jack.

She also has a son, called Roger, and four grandchildren, Amber, Joe, Mia, and Isla.

Councillor Yetunde Adeshile, deputy mayor, added: “Dorothy is a true gem, and her zest for life is inspiring.

“Her love for afternoon naps and gardening embodies the simple joys that often get overlooked in our fast-paced lives nowadays.

“In a world filled with complexities, Dorothy’s wisdom to take each day as it comes is a timeless reminder for us all to look up from our screens and live in the moment. It is an honour to join in celebrating her remarkable journey with her friends and family.”