CELEBRATIONS have been held for a Sully bowler who turned 100 this week.

William Thomas Glanville Brown - known as Glen - was joined by family and friends for the special occasion on Monday (August 15).

During the celebrations Mr Brown received an oil painting portrait of himself and a birthday card from the Queen.

Kay Shaw, his daughter who lives in Kent, was "full of cheers" for what she called a "joyous" day.

She said: "I am very fortunate, for over 60 years, to have my dad - that is my gift.

"He is cherished by his family and many friends."

Mr Brown was born in 1916 to a lay preaching father. During the outbreak of the Second World War in September 1939, Mr Brown served in the RAF, where he flew Blenheims and Halifaxes. He continues to be an active member of the Blenheim Society.

Sully Sports and Social Club, where Mr Brown has been a member for over 20 years, recalled warm anecdotes of the keen bowler at a meeting prior to his birthday.

Bill Ridgwater, a bowler and friend, described the former engineering director as a "really friendly man".

He said: "Glen truly is a splendid man - and that's coming from someone who has known him for about 20 years.

"This is a tribute to a highly intelligent man and to his moderation."

Friends also recalled Mr Brown's recital of four versions of 'If' by Rudyard Kipling at his 90th birthday.

Another Sully bowler paid tribute to the centenarian.

She said: "He is an incredibly sharp and attentive 100-year-old.

"What you've heard truly sums up Glen's warming and friendly character."