A GREAT-great grandfather from Kidderminster has been celebrating his 100th birthday with family.
William Henry Spratt, who previously worked as a fireman on the railways and was once friends with legendary actor Richard Burton, has been enjoying spending time with family and friends as he marks his 100-year milestone.
His grandson Anthony Staite said when he left his job at the Co-op, his friend Richard Burton, who later became an iconic actor of the stage and screen, took up the role.
Mr Staite said: "They were friends and that's how Richard Burton ended up with the job. It was working for the Co-op in the tailoring department.
"He's had quite an interesting life".
Mr Spratt came to Kidderminster in the late 1930s and was eventually employed as a fireman on the railways after which he joined the Royal Engineers and spent two years stationed in Germany.
He spent the rest of his working years driving heavy goods vehicles in the fuel industry until he retired.
He was married to his wife Evelyn for some sixty-odd years until she passed away in 2008, they had two daughters Pamela and Linda and enjoyed a happy marriage.
He has five grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.
The main celebrations were held on Saturday.
Mr Staite said: "On the Saturday we took him up to his favourite pub, the Land Oak. Literally the whole family were there just celebrating.
"Grandad had a great day."
The family went back to his house where he was treated to a birthday cake. He also celebrated with members of the Kidderminster Male Choir this week, where he has been made a life member.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here