IT was party time at Astley Grange Nursing Home as resident Jack Briggs celebrated his 100th birthday.

Mr Briggs, who was born and bred in Astley Bridge, has lived at the home in Blackburn Road since January. He was celebrating this afternoon with family and friends.

Mr Briggs, an Army veteran, had attempted to join the forces during the First World War at the age of 15 but was dragged home from the recruiting station by his mother.

He eventually served in the Army during the Second World War and later became a member of the Territorial Army.

Mr Briggs also attends Armistice Day reunions each year. He was married for 75 years and has a daughter and four grandchildren. After working as a taxi driver for 50 years, he retired when he was in his 80s.