A 100-year-old who has lived in Brighton her whole life says the secret to a long and happy life is to “just keep dancing”.

Dina Tester, who lives at Dean Wood Bupa Care Home in Brighton, celebrated the milestone on November 7 with celebrations as “spectacular as she is”.

The team at Dean Wood planned a party for Dina in their Sea View Cafe complete with music, singing and dancing, which was attended by Dina’s family and friends.

She was also presented with a signed card from King Charles III and the Queen Consort, wishing her "heartfelt good wishes on such a special occasion".

The Argus: Dina Tester on her 100th birthdayDina Tester on her 100th birthday (Image: Dean Wood Bupa Care Home)

“I had a wonderful day celebrating my 100th birthday,” said Dina.

“It was lovely to be surrounded by family and friends, the cake was absolutely gorgeous and the card from the King was so exciting - though my favourite part had to be the dancing and music.

“My top tip for a long and happy life is to just keep dancing, it’s good for the soul.”

The Argus: Dina's letter from King CharlesDina's letter from King Charles (Image: Dean Wood Bupa Care Home)

The centenarian, worked as a shop assistant in a shoe shop, but said her favourite job “of all time” was being a mum.

Dina and her late husband, Percy, had two children, Anne, and David, and later four grandchildren.

They enjoyed lots of trips across Europe together, with their favourite cities including Brussels, Paris and Italy.

Dina, whose mother was Belgian, has always loved ballroom, modern and line dancing, which she continues at Dean Wood, attending the weekly live performances.

The Argus: Dina's birthday cakeDina's birthday cake (Image: Dean Wood Bupa Care Home)

Julie Mullen, senior activity co-ordinator at Dean Wood, said: “We had a lovely day celebrating Dina’s milestone birthday.

“We love watching her dance, she becomes totally carefree.

“Music makes her feel alive and she has many friends at Dean Wood, both staff and residents - she is a truly special soul.

“Celebrating milestone occasions such as 100th Birthdays is so important to us at Dean Wood, it really brings a positive atmosphere to the home and really boosts our residents’ spirits.”