A DAILY nip of brandy and a positive attitude are the secrets to a long life according to Freda Comer who celebrated turning 105 at the weekend.

“I’ve always been positive, I’ve never been a miserable soul, and I’ve always just got on with it. You have to make sure you have fun and enjoy yourself,” said the mother-of-two.

“I’ve always eaten healthily too so that always helps and I have a sip of brandy every morning. I can’t believe how quickly the last five years have gone.”

Four generations of Freda’s family gathered at the Kingsmead Care Home, Old Town on Saturday (JULY 9) to celebrate her milestone birthday complete with rose laden birthday cake.

She was treated to an afternoon tea and a visit from Mayor of Swindon Eric Shaw who popped in to present her with a giant bunch of flowers

“I think it’s super to be here today, Freda has lived quite a life and I have enjoyed speaking to her today,” said the mayor.

She also received a telegram from the Queen, her second since she received one on her 100th birthday.

Freda has two daughters Ann Sutton and Brenda Major who organised the celebrations.

Brenda, from Lechlade, said her mum was an inspiration.

“She is just so positive and a great mum. All her grandchildren love and she just keeps on going. It’s lovely to be here celebrating with her today,” she said.

Well into her 11th decade, Freda maintains a love of scrabble, cards, bingo and cooked dinners.

Freda was born in Cricklade in 1911 where she grew up with four brothers and three sisters. She has lived in the Swindon area for much of her life, spending many years working on the family farm in Highworth.

“When I was 14 I moved to London to go into service as a maid. In those days there weren’t a lot of opportunities for women. It was hard work but I enjoyed it. That’s where I met my husband,” she said.

Freda was married to first husband, wood machinist, Charles Cole for 41 years until his death in 1975. Her second husband Ted Comer, who she married in 1985, died in 1995.

When the war broke out the family moved to Highworth, where she worked on the farm. While it was hard work, Freda said it taught her the value of family.

“We always had fun when we worked on the farm, it was hard work but we enjoyed ourselves. I remember drinking home-made dandelion wine with my mother in all different flavours which was amazing.”

She now has four grandchildren Lynne, Trina, Kevin and Stephen, four great-grandchildren aged 26 to 19 and two great-great grandchildren.