AN RAF veteran has celebrated his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Vernon Allen Pursell was born on August 1, 1916, and still lives in his own home in Thornton le Beans, between Thirsk and Northallerton, supported by family and neighbours.

He was born in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, the only son of Harry and Hilda, and attended Berkhamstead School.

When he left school went to work as an insurance clerk in London, where he met his wife-to-be Peggy.

He was called up in June 1940 and spent three months as an RAF recruitment clerk in Blackpool before being posted to the RAF Record Office, Ruislip, Middlesex, for about a year, during which time he married Peggy - in October 1941.

In 1945, soon after VE day, he embarked on the Empress of Australia bound for Okinawa, Japan, via the Panama Canal, but he did not see action because the atomic bombs were dropped on Japan before the ship reached its destination.

Mr and Mrs Pursell lived in the Harrow area for 45 years, until they moved up to Thornton le Beans in 1988, and in 2011 they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

Sadly Mrs Pursell passed away three years ago but Vernon continues to live in the village thanks to a strong support network. He celebrated his 100th birthday firstly with a large gathering of friends and neighbours and then a family meal, including four great grandchildren.

His granddaughter Sarah Boasman said: “We had a lovely day celebrating his birthday. He loves to read the newspapers every day, and enjoys a visit to the local pub.

“We collected some money for the British Heart Foundation and Friends of the Friarage Hospital, and would like to thank everyone who contributed.”