NEW data has revealed that Lymington is the UK's best place to live for a longer life.

Life expectancy in the New Forest town is the highest in the UK, at 86.7, compared to the UK average of 81 - meaning its elderly residents are enjoying more than five additional years on their lives in the town, according to data by TakingCare.

And its popularity amongst older people is growing, with more than 30 per cent of Lymington's population aged 65+.

The town has also been rated for its quality of life for older people, with the average property price in the area at £555,000, good outdoor spaces including Woodside Park and the Normandy Lagoon, and no less than 61 fish and chip shops in the area.

Louise Yasities from TakingCare, said of the data: “As we get older, we find new things become more important to us.

"Moving somewhere that is not only a fantastic place to live but will also provide the services needed to look after you as you get older is crucial for the 65 plus age demographic.

“We’ve crunched the numbers to evaluate these considerations and have developed this list of the best places in the UK for people to retire to; from bingo halls to the number of care homes for every older person, we’ve left no stone unturned to find the best destinations for our older population.”