A SECOND World War radio operator has revealed the secret to living a long and happy life.

Vera Coulson shared her tips as she celebrated her 106th birthday in Knutsford.

Asked for advice on how we could all enjoy reaching such a milestone, Vera said: “Live a spiritual life and always be kind to others.”

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A special birthday party was prepared by chefs at Care UK’s Cranford Grange in Knutsford where Vera lives.

The team decorated the lounge with birthday banners and balloons as a surprise.

Knutsford Guardian: Vera chats to team members Lisa West and Nikita Cunningham-Burns CaskieVera chats to team members Lisa West and Nikita Cunningham-Burns Caskie (Image: Cranford Grange)

A big cake was baked and iced with chocolate and festooned with roses and strawberries.

Wearing a ‘birthday girl’ sash, she celebrated with her friends and fellow residents.

Vera was born alongside twin sister, Dora, seven months before the end of the First World War.

Knutsford Guardian: Vera and twin sister, Dora, with a midwife in 1918Vera and twin sister, Dora, with a midwife in 1918 (Image: Cranford Grange)

Despite being born deaf in one ear, her handicap didn’t stop her pursuing a successful career.

Vera was a radio operator during the Second World War.

Knutsford Guardian: Vera and twin sister, Dora, aged twoVera and twin sister, Dora, aged two (Image: Cranford Grange)

Radio played a vital role in the dissemination of information as operators transmitted and received communications from various military personnel.

After the war, Vera joined the civil service and worked for the Ministry of Agriculture and Fishing.

Knutsford Guardian: Vera as a young womanVera as a young woman (Image: Cranford Grange)

Lisa Burrows, general manager at Cranford Grange, said: “Vera is a much-loved resident here and it was wonderful to help celebrate such a momentous birthday.

“We work hard to support residents to lead fulfilling lives and celebrating special occasions and birthdays plays a huge part in this.

Knutsford Guardian: Vera celebrates her 106th birthday with the team at Cranford GrangeVera celebrates her 106th birthday with the team at Cranford Grange (Image: Cranford Grange)

“We love any excuse to celebrate the amazing people living here and Vera’s birthday was no exception. “Everyone had a wonderful time listening to Vera share incredible memories from her 106 years of life.

“We were honoured to have Vera as part of the Cranford Grange family – happy birthday Vera!”