A Swindon woman who served her country shooting down enemy aircraft in World War Two is turning 100 - and has revealed all her secrets to a long and happy life.

Olive Foster, originally from Bromley in Kent, was born on November 30, 1924, as one of five children, now lives in Swindon. 

Born just six years after World War One ended, and 15 years before World War Two began, a large portion of Olive's daily childhood life was defined by war, bravery and sacrifice.

When she was just 16 years old, the young woman chose to lie about her age and join the Royal Artillery Regiment to serve her country.

Olive was still a teenager when she was taught how to shoot down enemy aircraft using a machine called the Predictor, which she won two medals for, and she later travelled across Britain training other members of the Royal Artillery.

Olive in her uniform in 1941, aged 17Olive in her uniform in 1941, aged 17 (Image: Barbara Ellary) After the war ended, Olive finally married her husband Wilf, who she had met during the war through her sister, and the couple settled down in Woolwich where they had two children, Keith and Barbara, born in 1950 and 1952.

But Olive wasn't one to become a stay-at-home housewife and in 1963 she began working various jobs before joining the Army Vetting Unit where she worked until retirement.

Olive's husband Wilf died in 1999, after 51 long years together, and following his death she moved to Gravesend before settling in Swindon with her daughter Barbara.

Olive and Wilf on their wedding day in November 1948Olive and Wilf on their wedding day in November 1948 (Image: Barbara Ellary) Olive Foster pictured in 2024, preparing to celebrate 100 years of lifeOlive Foster pictured in 2024, preparing to celebrate 100 years of life (Image: Barbara Ellary) Now celebrating her 100th birthday on Saturday, November 30, Olive's friends and family say they "treasure very moment" they get to spend with her.

Speaking to the Swindon Advertiser, the 100-year-old revealed her secret to a long life was: "Leading a happy family life with no stress.

"The secret is clean living, no drinking or smoking - and it helps that I have good genes."

But when asked how it feels to be turning 100-years-old, Olive claimed she "doesn't feel any different."

The local woman will be celebrating a century of life in style, with a sit-down meal, performances of wartime songs from her youth, and a short presentation set to be made by Army Personnel.

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