On the occasion of their 101st birthday, twin sisters Betty Richards and Jenny Pelmore tell the secret of long life. The twins were born half an hour apart on January 1, 1908 in Manchester and there is a strong bond among them since childhood.

Both sisters were married but now they are widows. Earlier Richards was a kindergarten teacher and later she became a beekeeper and Pelmore was a secretary and later in life she became an accomplished painter.

Pelmore said: “We have so many memories. I don't think I would change anything. The only horrible part was the last World War.”  

Their optimistic approach to life makes them healthy and happy. The Telegraph quoted Pelmore as saying, “We are still in very good health and keep mobile. We are also together, which is the main thing.”

She added: “We have always been active and intend to remain so. Having a busy life and not sitting still for too long is the key.”

They like an occasional drink of gin, brandy and gingerale. They started learning Spanish at the age of 97 and attended night classes. They visited Budapest last year to celebrate their centenaries. “The secret is to stay healthy. Just keep smiling and keep going,” Richards said.