A GRANDFATHER of three marked a milestone birthday with a very British tea party.

Roy Lees, a retired business owner from Ramsbottom, threw a party to remember to celebrate his 100th birthday on July 27.

Born in Bury in 1919, Mr Lees moved to Dawes Bank Farm in Holcombe in 1926 where he lived with his parents and four older brothers.

He had a happy childhood living on the side of Holcombe Hill and attended Hazlehurst Junior School and Peel Brow Secondary School.

On leaving school he took up an apprenticeship in joinery at Shilton's Sawmill in Ramsbottom and worked there for many years until setting up his own business, Castle & Lees.

Mr Lees is now still enjoying a very long and active retirement, spending many hours in his beautiful garden.

Most weeks he travels to Bury on the bus, regularly attends Probus meetings at Holcombe Brook, and looks forward to doing his weekly shop in Ramsbottom.

One of his other pleasures is eating out with his family at nearby cafes and restaurants, especially for breakfast and lunch.

"At 100-years-old he has a really good appetite," his son Stuart joked.

In honour of Mr Lees' centenary birthday, 80 of his friends and family gathered for an afternoon tea party held at the Dundee United Reformed Church, where he is still an active elder and member.

In an extra special moment Mr Lees was overjoyed to see his niece, Dorothy, and her son, Graham, who had travelled from Cornwall and London to give him a surprise.

He also received countless cards, including one from the Queen, and enjoyed birthday cake made in the shape of a photo album, topped with pictures depicting different periods of his life.

At the party donations were raised for The Bury Blind and Partially Sited Society.

Stuart Lees said: "The tea party was a very happy occasion, with everyone wanting to celebrate such a special moment with Roy and to shake his hand.

"A great time was had by all and some very special memories were made."