Felix the tortoise is living proof that taking it easy leads to a longer life.

The ancient pet has been gently strolling through the gardens of the same Kelvedon street for more than 90 years.

And he has even staked a place in the history books, with a stained glass window in his image at the local parish church.

For the past 12 years Felix has been enjoying life with Norman and Olive Hunwick, sleeping through the cold winter months, and heading straight for the garden in the spring.

But the Hunwicks are the latest in a long line of owners for the laid-back reptile. He First came to the village around the time of the First World War.

Mr Hunwick said: "A lady who used to live in Church Street bought Felix off a chap with a barrow who came through the village. She was very keen on all kinds of animals."

When the devoted owner died, she left directions in her will that some of her estate should be used to pay for a special stained glass window in Kelvedon Church featuring Felix with birds and other creatures.

After her death Felix was passed on to a Mr Miller who lived close by. And when he moved into an old people's home, the Hunwicks inherited the tortoise.

Mr Hunwick said: "We don't know exactly how old Felix is, but we know that he has been in the village for more than 90 years.

"Some people say he was a few years old when he came here, so he could be over 100."

He added: "Felix is really part of the family now and is normally running around the garden, despite his age."

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