THE route to a long life is a lot of hard work and a good sing-song, according to Eva Clapham.

The Darlington pensioner showed she can still belt out a few war-time ballads during a party held to celebrate her 104th birthday.

Eva was joined by friends and family at the party, which was held at the Gardens Nursing Home, in Darlington, where she has been a resident since 1995.

Her niece, Yvonne Clapham, said Eva had always been fond of singing, and could still put others in the shade during family reunions.

She said: "Eva has a great voice, and for her age she is very alert. Whenever we get the chance, we have a sing-song, and she loves the old war-time songs, which she is always humming and singing."

Eva was born in Aycliffe Village, near Darlington.

During the First World War, she helped her father on numerous building sites, because all the men were abroad fighting.

She moved to London shortly before the Second World War, but returned during the Blitz and settled in the village of Heighington.

During her time in Heighington, she became involved in the local church choir and spent a lot of time making home-made wine, which she sold at village fairs.

Yvonne Clapham said: "Eva will be 104 on Sunday, but she wants a quiet day so there won't be any sing-songs, just time to reflect."