AT the grand age of 105, Punambhai Patel is probably Bolton’s most active pensioner.

He keeps fit by attending yoga and exercise classes at the Asian Elders Resource Centre in Northfield Street, Deane.

The retired joiner was still doing odd jobs at 100 and he used to walk a mile to the centre from his home in Chorley Old Road until recently. He only gave up because his failing hearing meant he could no longer hear the traffic.

The secret of his good health is drinking lots of milk as a child, he believes, and he does not smoke or drink.

He and his wife, Maniben, moved to Bolton years 30 years ago after they came for their son Chiman’s wedding.

Mr Patel, who has been a member of the Asian Elders Centre for four years, said: “I am proud that I am still this active at my age and I enjoy keeping fit.

“I used to be a joiner and I officially retired a long time ago, but I was still working up to about five years ago.

“I drank a lot of milk when I was a child and I think that has helped me keep healthy.

“I keep going to the hospital to see if there is anything wrong with me, but they say no.”

He was born in India in 1905 and lived in Kenya from the age of 40, until moving to Bolton in 1980.

Things were different back in the days of the early 20th century and getting married very young was common in India.

He was just eight years old when he married his wife, who was only six. Mr Patel added: “That’s how things were done in the old days.”

The pair were together for 76 years, but Mrs Patel died in 1990.

Fatherhood came for Mr Patel when he was aged 25. He has seven children, 18 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and he could not remember how many great great grandchildren.

He said: “I have made the most of my life and I have had lots of happy times. A fortune teller told me I am going to die at 107. I am not scared, I am just waiting for my invitation.”

Shabeen Rehman, manager of the Asian Elders Centre, said: “He is the oldest member we have here and he is a character.

“He enjoys taking part in the exercises and walking about.

“It is a well-used centre and is important for the community. We offer a range of activities, including exercise, English classes and games and crafts.”