A former grocer, believed to be the district’s oldest living person, has celebrated his 105th birthday.

George Manley, who now lives at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Stisted, was overwhelmed with cards and gifts on the big day last Thursday.

The great-grandfather of two, who says he has “lived a hard-working life”, started in a builders’ merchants and later owned a grocery shop in West Bergholt.

He is one of the care home’s longest-serving residents. having lived there ever since it first opened in 1998.

Mr Manley only gave up smoking at the age of 100 and is said to enjoy a whisky every evening before bed.

He said: “It was a lovely day and I enjoyed it very much.

“I don’t really have a secret to living this long, but it is important that you always keep yourself busy.”

Audrey Brown, the home’s activities co-ordinator, said: “The whole day went really well. We had a singer in the afternoon which I know George enjoyed a lot.

“Quite a lot of people from our head office and association of friends came along, and he received lots of presents and well-wishes.”