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Robert's secrets are out at 104!

From the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, first published Thursday 4th Apr 2002.

GUINNESS and a drop of whisky is the secret to a long and happy life, according to a former pub landlord who today celebrates his 104th birthday.

Robert Sanderson, of Longshaw House, Crosby Road, Blackburn, was born in 1898 -- while Queen Victoria was still on the throne.

He marked the occasion two weeks ago with a special birthday treat.

Children more than a century younger than Mr Sanderson were invited from neighbouring Longshaw Nursery in Crosby Road to sing for him, including four-year-old Robin Ellison, who is pictured with 'Sandy'.

Mr Sanderson had two children, Frank, now 78, and Eva, who passed away three years ago. His wife Mary died more than 30 years ago. He was a regular at Longshaw Working Men's club, Blackburn.

Frank said: "He is such a jolly fellow. Even now when you talk to him about Blackburn Rovers, he nearly drops off his seat when you tell him how much it costs! He is still thinking in threepence and shillings."

Blackburn-born Mr Sanderson was raised in the Whalley Range area and was landlord at the old Gardeners Inn, Great Bolton Street.

He also worked as a farrier and drove horse-drawn carts along the railway before he retired in 1956.

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