An Irish nun, aged 103 years old, has become Ireland’s oldest coronavirus survivor.

Sister Martha Hickey was born in 1917 and joined the Sisters of the Infant Jesus aged 19.

The order had founded a school for girls in Drishane, Millstreet in 1909, and soon added a saw mill, a brush factory, a knitting factory as well as running a farm.

The centenarian, who has devoted over 80 years of her life to the Church, first fell ill at her nursing home in Co. Cork over three weeks ago and was admitted to hospital.

Suffering with a high temperature and respiratory problems, a hospital test later confirmed that the Limerick native was coronavirus positive.

Despite her notable age, the brave pensioner’s recovery was helped by her having no underlying health conditions.

Martha’s overjoyed family are now eager to share her story. “We are just so proud of her,” said Anne Linehan, who is one of the devout nun’s many nieces.

“We really didn’t know what to expect when we heard that it was Covid-19 but the doctors and nurses couldn’t be more delighted with her progress. Right now, she is up out of the bed and walking with her walking aid and eating and in great spirits. The doctors are hoping she will be back in the nursing home early this week.”