ONE of the country's oldest line dancers has revealed the secret to an energetic retirement.
Audrey Paterson celebrated her 90th birthday yesterday and to mark the occasion she took to the floor and danced the night away.
The Beeston resident has been dancing her entire life and attending line dancing sessions held at the Memorial Hall, High Road, Chilwell, for the last 20 years.
The great-great-grandmother said: "I just love dancing and have tried all sorts of different types over the years.
"I like the companionship of dancing and it also helps to keep you fit. I line dance twice a week and also go to ballroom classes once a week.
"You have to keep moving as much as possible at my age or else you stop altogether.
"I will be spending my birthday resting and then I will be going mad later in the evening by having a dance and attending my party.
"I like to think that I am one of the oldest line dancers in the country and I will keep going forever.
"The secret to keeping active is giving everything a go, especially dancing."
Mrs Paterson goes on regular holidays which are often booked with her love of dancing in mind.
When she is not dancing the 90-year-old can be seen walking around Beeston getting some exercise and doing the shopping.
Mrs Paterson is the head of a family that now has five generations following the birth of her great-great-granddaughter, Esme Pearce 14 months ago.
Daughter Sue Sole, 62, of Maple Avenue, Beeston, added: "It is really great that my mum is still dancing several times a week.
"She has been dancing her whole life and is showing no signs of stopping.
"She goes on holiday four or five times a year and her trips always involve dancing.
"Not many people are as fit and mobile as she is and I think it is all down to the dancing."
Dance teacher Sue Toon from Sue's Stetson Stompers said: "Audrey is the oldest member of our group and I don't know anyone dancing that is older.
"She doesn't look 90 and I am sure it is down to her dedication to dancing.
"It is really important to stay active and something like line dancing helps you mentally and physically.
"Everyone at the group wishes Audrey a very happy birthday and is looking forward to many more years of dancing with her."
