A FULL stomach has been the secret of a long life for 104-year-old Ida Gault.

She swears that enjoying her food has been one of the key reasons for seeing in another birthday today at the Birchland retirement home in Haxby.

Ida, who has lived in York all her life, said: "My secret has been staying contented, being happy and enjoying my food."

Ida, born in 1899 and one of the last survivors of the Victorian era, worked in service as a housekeeper and married George Gault, but had no children. George worked for York Corporation - the equivalent of what is now City of York Council.

Ida said: "I have had a full and enjoyable life. I had a close-knit family."

She was celebrating with friends at the home.

Updated: 10:54 Wednesday, March 05, 2003