STAFF at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, in Guildford, pulled out all the stops when James Burgess found himself celebrating his 100th birthday in Ewhurst ward, after he fell while staying with his family locally.

Mr Burgess, who is originally from Lancashire, served in The Wiltshire Regiment as a sergeant during World War II.

He met his future wife after taking up his friend’s offer of going on a double blind date.

After the war they lived for a short spell in Birmingham and then settled down in London, where they raised three children, with James becoming a baker and later on a bus driver with London Transport.

His secret to a long and happy life is something he does at 8.30pm every evening – indulge himself with a glass of whisky-mac, which is scotch with ginger wine.

He received a card and message from the Queen and a gift of pyjamas and handkerchiefs from the staff on the ward.

His son Graham said: “While celebrating his 100th birthday in a hospital bed would not have been his first-choice, dad is extremely grateful for all the love and care received.”