FORMER mill worker and barmaid Martha Hatton of Atherton celebrated her 95th birthday in style - by going for a quick dip.

Martha, who once worked in the spinning mills before joining the staff at the old Queen's Arms in Atherton, works out twice a week at Atherton Baths.

She didn't take up the hobby seriously until she was 83 but now tries not to miss her regular sessions.

And even after suffering from a broken knee which kept her in hospital for four months, and two cataract operations, sprightly Martha, advises the sport to anyone.

She said: "I started swimming when I was on holiday in Blackpool with my grand-daughter. It was raining so we were told we could use the pool in a local hotel. Since then I have become interested more and more and except for when I had my operations I have kept going, thanks to my neighbour Peter McCoy who takes me to the baths in his car.

"I would recommend going to the baths to any older person because it keeps you fit and keeps the muscles toned up. It's good exercise for anyone but you have to keep going. Even just moving about in the water is good for you, and I will keep going as long as I can."

Martha, a widow for 25 years, who was once a member of St John Ambulance Brigade, spends the rest of her time reading, knitting, and "chatting to anyone who wants to listen".

She has two surviving children, six grand-children and four great-grandchildren,

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