UK's oldest man to celebrate 110th birthday

The UK's oldest man will soon be celebrating his 110th birthday.

Donald Rose, who survived a bullet to the leg during World War Two, will be presented with a cake during a wartime-themed party at the care home where he lives in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, on 24 December.

Mr Rose's birthday party is being attended by the Mayor of Erewash, Kate Fennelly, and comes just weeks after he attended a charity event at St James's Palace, in London.

Fennelly, who served in the RAF, said: "Donald is a lovely character and a true national treasure. The borough is proud to cherish him as its most senior resident."

Mr Rose joined the Queen's Royal Regiment at the age of 25 and went on to train as a sniper.

He served in North Africa and Europe and puts his longevity down to salty water he had to drink during his time as a Desert Rat.

Ahead of his birthday, Erewash Borough Council said a community forum had been "flooded with salutes" to Mr Rose.

One message read: "What an incredible man – and incredible age."

Charlie Smith wrote: "He was at the Ilkeston remembrance parade. He is such a wonderful man, not only for what he has done for us, but who he is as a person."

Rebecca Bramley posted: "I love reading about this gent. I'll be dropping a pressie off on Christmas Eve."

Mr Rose's son, David, who is in his 70s, said: "He's my father, he's my hero."

Follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.