WE HEAR it all the time, but plenty of fresh air and no cigarettes or alcohol may really be the key a long and happy life.

Last week Thomas Elwyn Price celebrated his 100th birthday with a party at Havenhurst Day Centre in Milford Haven.

Mr Price, who visits the centre twice a week to help set up the lunch tales for its residents, was treated to a special party organised by family, friends and staff.

A wall of photographs from his 10 decades of adventure decorated the wall, and guests were treated to afternoon tea and live singing.

"They pulled out all the stops, I couldn't have wished for a better day," said Mr Price.

Milford Mercury:

Mr Price - also known as Tom – served with the Military Police during the war and he was delighted that some of the many cards he received were from MP personnel from all over the world.

"Our postman said he had never delivered so many cards to one person," said his daughter Dianne Eden.

Born in the Rhondda, Mr Price came to Pembrokeshire in the late 1950s and worked as a process operator for Esso for many years until the refinery closed.

A widower - his wife Alvira died 12 years ago - he has two daughters, Dianne who lives in Milford Haven, and Susan Griffiths of Neyland.

He also has five grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.

A teetotaller and non-smoker, Mr Price instead got his fun from travelling the world, taking in Iceland, Norway, Thailand and Hong Kong among others.

He still has ambitions to see Australia and New Zealand if his health allows.

"I don't feel 100," he joked.

Fiercely independent, he can often be found catching the bus to Narberth, or popping down Charles Street for a coffee and a 'gossip with the girls'.

"You have to keep a close eye on him," said Dianne. "You turn your back and he's off!"