Former Coventry Olympic swimmer celebrates her 103rd birthday

WHAT does it feel like to live for 103 years?

Former Olympic swimmer Lilian Auckland could certainly tell you, as she celebrated the amazing milestone this week at her Coventry care home.

Born in Coventry on 20 January 1917, the year before World War 1 came to an end, Lilian has lived a remarkable and busy life, and has seen some changes in her time.

Lilian spent a busy career at Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft in Baginton, and was married to husband Walter.

They had three children, Barry, Richard and Judith. Lilian is also a grandmother of three and a great grandmother of two.

The 103 year old hasn’t been able to sit still over the years, from playing hockey, netball and even competing in swimming at Olympic level in her younger years.

In addition to an active lifestyle, Lilian revealed that her secret to long life is a healthy diet and credits her youthful look to moisturizer.

The Telegraph has had the pleasure of meeting some remarkable centenarians over the past year. From hero ambulance driver John Sergeant, to watchmaker Rose Ball to 102 year old factory worker Arthur Brunt, the city is filled with some remarkable older people with fascinating stories to tell.

As a keen swimmer, Lilian was delighted to continue her love of swimming as a centenarian, as staff at Victoria Park took her for a swim at the local pool for her 101st birthday.

And to mark 103 years, the energetic pensioner celebrated with her nearest and dearest at her Coventry care home, HC-One’s Victoria

Park. Staff at Victoria Park arranged a special birthday party to mark Lilian’s big day, as she was joined by her loved ones and care home residents to celebrate her big day.

Victoria Park was decorated with balloons and bunting as Lilian opened her presents and put on her sparkling tiara, before being presented with a beautiful homemade cake.

Patricia Alleyne, Home Manager at Victoria Park, said: “Lilian is a lovely lady who never fails to brighten up the day for her fellow residents and staff here at Victoria Park.

“It was amazing to see Lilian smiling from ear to ear as she spent her special day with her nearest and dearest.

“Seeing Lilian back in the swimming pool at the age of 101 was truly magnificent. She is an inspiration to all of her peers and I can’t wait to see what more she achieves in the future.”