TAKING each day as it comes is the key to long life, according to one Moredon resident who celebrates his 103rd birthday this week.

Eric Pope, who lives at the Maple Court sheltered housing complex, in The Street, had a celebration ahead of his big day, on Saturday, with a coffee morning and tea party with friends and extended family.

The centenarian credits enjoying a few of life’s guilty pleasures as the reason behind his longevity.

“I have a whiskey every day and I have an occasional flutter on the horses, you’ve got to have exciting things in life,” he said.

“Just keep breathing, that’s my motto. I’m still here and I enjoy my life.”

Born on August 29, 1912, life-long town resident Eric spent his formative years in Rodbourne alongside his 10 brothers and sisters.

The former welder is known in the community for his 49-year stint on the railways and for being one of the first people in the town to hold a valid driving licence.

“When I was able to drive I really felt like I had my independence and it was a great feeling as a young man,” Eric said.

“I liked working on the railways because I felt lucky to have a job. I also have the job to thank for meeting my wife because I knew her brother from there.”

Following his marriage to Ivy Bishop and a move to Harcourt Road, the couple had their son Robert in 1945 as the Second World War drew to a close.

“It was a difficult time and I saw a Zeppelin fly over me once but I wasn’t scared,” Eric said.

The great-grandfather moved to Maple Court after Ivy’s death in 2010. In his 11th decade the community stalwart maintains a love of ties, bingo, raffles and Swindon Town FC Son Robert, who lives in Sherborne, said his father was an inspiration to him.

“It hasn’t really surprised me that he’s lived to this age, our family live long lives but he’s still as sharp as ever and he enjoys his life and that’s most important,” he said.

“I think it’s pretty amazing that he’s made it to 103 and he’s still in good health and so sharp.

“His mind is constantly turning over and he always wants to learn new things.”