WHEN they were born premature in 1912, doctors gave Paulette and Simone the slimmest chance of survival. But 104 years later, the French twins say there’s a simple secret to their longevity: sticking together.

    With their long white hair tied back in ponytails and gold spectacles perched on their noses, Paulette Olivier and Simone Thiot were happy to pose for the camera at their retirement home in Onzain, central France.

    There is no official confirmation that Paulette and Simone are the oldest twins in France, but they appear to be the likely holders of the title.

    “We’re being very spoiled,” one of them said as they showed off the flowers given by the local council and fellow retirement home residents to mark their 104th birthday Friday.

    Paulette and Simone were born in the central village of Limeray in 1912 to Marie Lamolie, a dressmaker, and her husband Joseph, a carpenter.

    Paulette, widowed at 36, worked as a hairdresser for 15 years in Algeria, then in Paris.

    Simone, a dressmaker like her mother, lost her husband when she was 64.

    Neither had any children.

    The twins, whose only brother died in accident at the age of 99, insist it’s their lasting friendship that has kept them going all this time.

    Paulette and Simone spend their time keeping up with current affairs, reading, watching television and listening to music.

    Simone also regularly writes poems, which she keeps in a notebook.

    Any other tips for a long life? “A simple life — no excess. No alcohol. And lots of sport.

    “We did gymnastics for a long time, and a huge amount of cycling — almost every day.”

    (SD-Agencies)