Don’t worry, be happy - Olga’s secret to long life

Inspiring care home resident Olga Webster turned 102 years old last Wednesday - Armistice Day.

The resident at Polebank Care Home in Hyde enjoyed a special celebration, the occasion including presents, a party, buffet and game of bingo. Wine and a ‘Through the Decades’ quiz completed the perfect evening.

Born in Liverpool to Janet and George Westrow, a colourful career followed for Olga.

During World War Two, she served as a secretary, before becoming a driver, travelling the length of the country to sell seeds to farmers.

Married twice, she met her first husband, Ted, at the local youth club. 

They had two daughters, Liz and Pat, before Ted passed away. 

Olga didn’t remarry until her 70s, finding a husband and travel companion in Bob. Together, they cruised Germany, Portugal and France, and kept a caravan in North Wales.

Olga came to the care home of her own choice, looking for more company.

When asked about the secret to her long life, she said: “Never ever let anything worry you, because you can’t change anything, just enjoy life as it comes and enjoy what you have.”

But she also attributes some of her success to drinking lots of cups of tea and a glass of wine nearly every day.

Manager at Polebank Hall Residential Care Home, Sarah Benson, said of Olga: “She really inspires us, we all feel really honoured to look after her, because she’s just incredible, nothing ever gets her down.”

Watching documentaries, The Chase and football games keep Olga’s mind active, and she’s known for being a Scrabble champion.

If she had to give advice to her 21-year-old self, Olga says: “Keep faith, always believe everything will turn out right in the end. You have to believe it, and it will happen.”