RAF veteran Donald Roberts has celebrated his 100th birthday at a party with family and friends.

Born and bred in Bradford, Donald has lived here all his life, apart from a few years in the early 1950s.

He grew up in Allerton and went to Allerton Junior School, then Thornton Grammar School until he was 16.

Donald’s daughter, Susan Hardy, said: “After leaving school he worked on the railways, in the telegraph office, where he had to learn Morse code, and also in the parcels office in Bradford.

“He then went to Bingley Station, working in the ticket office, until he joined the RAF at the age of 19. He served with ground crew in the Second World War and spent time in Italy and North Africa.

“After the war he returned to Bingley Station for a while and then moved to Leeds Station.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Donald, centre, celebrating his birthday with family and friends Donald, centre, celebrating his birthday with family and friends (Image: Mike Simmonds, Newsquest)

“He worked for the railways for a few years then decided on a change of career and in 1952 he got a job with the Weights and Measures Department at Bradford Council - which later became West Yorkshire Trading Standards - and, after training, he qualified as an Inspector. He retired in 1986.”

Donald married his wife, Margaret, at Allerton Congregational Church in August 1948. They were married for more than 60 years until Margaret sadly passed away in 2011.

“They celebrated their Diamond Wedding in 2008 and received a card from the Queen. Dad has been looking forward to getting another card from Her Majesty for his birthday," said Susan.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Donald and Margaret on their wedding day Donald and Margaret on their wedding day (Image: Submitted)

“Dad spent many years as a member of Allerton Congregational Church Operatic Society, and he was the Secretary of the Society.

“He loved travelling and holidays abroad. He has visited Australia three times."

Donald has one daughter, Susan, two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. He still lives in his own home, supported by his family, and he likes to read and do Sudoku puzzles.

He celebrated his 100th birthday with a party at Bingley Arts Centre, surrounded by his family and friends.

* Have you got a special celebration you would like to share with us? Maybe you too are celebrating your 100th birthday, or you have a family member who is.

Or is it your Golden, Diamond or even Platinum wedding anniversary?

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