A World War II veteran celebrated his 100th birthday at the Raleigh Manor Care Home with a guard of honour.

Sidney Stopp, a resident at the care home, recounted his special memories of his time serving for the British Army.

Mr Stopp saw service landing shortly after D Day at Arromanches (Gold) Beach in Normandy and at Arnhem (Operation Market Garden), and was awarded the Legion d’Honneur by the Government of France.

Major Richard Lupton said: "It is a pleasure and a privilege to honour one of the few left from a very important part of British history."

As Major Lupton read the birthday message from The Royal Artillery, he ended with the phrase "Once a gunner, always a gunner."

Skye Jones, deputy manager at Raleigh Manor Care Home, said: "We wanted this day to be a truly special one for Sid so being able to involve the groups that mean so much to him in the celebration was emotional and heart-warming."

Adding, "Local charity, Launchpad made an amazing cake depicting the white cliffs of Dover.

"Local singer, Julia Green provided entertainment including all Sid’s favourite Vera Lynn songs and the Exmouth representative for the Royal British Legion, Darren New attended, holding the official Standard.

"It was perfect!"

Mr Stopp said he held remarkable regard for the Salvation Army for the warm welcome he received upon returning to Britain.

The Raleigh Manor staff organised a surprise guard of honour for the army veteran, including the Salvation Army members.

Representatives of the British Army from the Regimental Headquarters Royal Artillery and the 43rd Wessex Division also joined the guard of honour.

Mr Stopp received a special commemorative card from the King & Queen which was presented to him by WO2 Kerry Roberts.