Oldest veteran of WWI reaches 112

Britain's oldest man, thought to be one of three surviving UK World War I veterans, is celebrating reaching his 112th birthday.

Henry Allingham, who was born in London on 6 June 1896, is also the last surviving original member of the Royal Air Force - formed 90 years ago.

Mr Allingham, from Ovingdean, near Brighton, will celebrate at Royal Air Force College Cranwell, Lincolnshire.

The event will include a fly-past by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

There will also be a parachute jump by the Royal Air Force Falcons Parachute Display Team.

The event will be attended by Air Vice Marshal Peter Dye (retd) and Vice Admiral Sir Adrian Johns.

Mr Allingham's birthday will also be marked by a visit from local schoolchildren who will give him a cake.

Before setting off for Lincolnshire, the 112-year-old said he felt "on the crest of a wave" and was looking forward to a wonderful day.

"I just hope I don't let the side down," he said.

"People ask me how I've done it, and I just say that I look forward to another tomorrow."

Source: BBC NEWS click to read full story