Rugby is secret to a long life (From Barry And District News)

Rugby is secret to a long life

APPARENTLY, the key to longevity is not drinking, not smoking, and playing rugby!

Well that's if 106-year-old Maria Eley is anything to go by!

Maria, originally of Cogan, but who now lives at the Bella Vista nursing home on Tynewydd Road, Barry, is a fine example of how an energetic lifestyle and an active mind can add years to your life.

Maria's daughter Jocelyn Smith said: "I think it is brilliant my mother has reached such an age."

Maria married Hector, and had eight children with him, seven of whom are still alive. Hector died in 1973.

She has 22 grandchildren, more great-grandchildren, and even one great-great-grandchild.

Maria had several jobs, including packing parachutes and bookbinding.