A school caretaker from Keighley retired on a high note thanks to a little help from his friends.

Harry Plunkett thought he was joining fellow members of the Airedale Music Company for a fundraising sing-a-long at a local pub last Friday evening.

But when he reached the Turkey Inn at Goose Eye he had the surprise of his life when he saw a party had been thrown in his honour.

It was a double celebration for Harry, from Shann Avenue, who retired from his job at Braithwaite Special School and celebrated his 65th birthday on Friday.

"I had a marvellous time and we sang all our usual favourites and raised a bit of money for charity as well," says Harry.

"It was a lovely night because my son Aidan, daughter in law Lorraine and grandchildren Daniel and Amy came down from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland.

"I think it all came about because a few weeks ago we were having a drink after rehearsals and I mentioned that it was my birthday on the night we were due to sing at the Turkey Inn.

"I suppose that put it in their minds to organise something for me and it was a really nice surprise."

Harry joined the Airedale Music Company a year ago after encouragement from other members and wife Elaine, who joined the singing group when it formed two years ago.

He says: "When I was a pupil at St Anne's I was told I couldn't sing by my teacher Adele Roddy. I absolutely love it now and I just wonder what Miss Roddy would think of me."

A former textile worker, Harry was a caretaker at Braithwaite Special School for four years and then worked at Holy Family School and St Anne's RC Primary School before rejoining Braithwaite two years ago.

"I've had a lovely last couple of years at Braithwaite and I shall miss it because the kids are great," he adds.

Harry will continue "singing for his supper" and raising money for charity with the music company as well as pursuing his other interests including cycling, golf, gardening and rugby coaching.

A collection after the concert raised £110 for the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue team.