War veteran Ronald Priest marks 101st birthday at The Cedars Care Home in Bourne

Celebrations were in full swing at a care home this week as resident Ronald Priest reached his 101st birthday.

He was joined by relatives, friends and other residents at The Cedars Care Home in Bourne for a lunchtime celebration and special birthday cake.

The party was a time to reflect on Ronald's interesting life. He served as a rear gunner, flying 25 operations in a Stirling bomber during the Second World War with 149 Squadron based at RAF Lakenheath.

He had many life-changing experiences, including a crash landing and dogfights over the North Sea. In 1947 he joined Nationwide (then called the Co-operative Permanent Building Society). He worked in London, Portsmouth and Chester, then becoming branch manager in Peterborough and retiring in 1984.

Ronald said he had a lovely day with his family and loved spending time with his daughter Angela, who he describes as the most important part of his life.

Rebecca Aldred, senior general manager of The Cedars, added: “We're delighted to celebrate a truly remarkable man who has reached this amazing milestone. Ron is such a popular resident who always has an interesting tale to tell, and we look forward to hearing many more."