A DELIGHTED care home resident from Colchester has received a letter from the king as he celebrated his 100th birthday.

Bill Martin celebrated the milestone among friends and family.

On the big day, Bill received a letter from King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla to commemorate the momentous occasion. 

A surprise visit from his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren also kept him entertained with staff at the Crouched Friars care home, on Crouch Street, Colchester, going above and beyond to ensure he felt extra special.

Gazette: Generations - Bill and his familyGenerations - Bill and his family (Image: Crouched Friars Care Home)

Bill’s 100th birthday celebration was one to remember, with plenty of balloons, a special cake  and lots of photos and memories from his eventful life.

Born in London, Bill held many jobs throughout his lifetime with his last job was as a security officer at a gas board before he eventually retired.

Bill said he has enjoyed a long and fulfilling life.

He said: “So much has happened in my life and I enjoyed every moment of it. My biggest achievement is raising my two amazing sons."

When asked what life advice he has for the younger generation, Bill said: “Just carry on as usual and enjoy your life."

Gazette: Treats - Bill's cakesTreats - Bill's cakes (Image: Crouched Friars Care Home)

Bill now spends his days enjoying a peaceful life at the Crouch Street care home, where he enjoys reading the newspaper every morning and spending time with his friends in the home.

He was presented with his letter from the King, complete with a photograph, by care home manager, Paulina Eagle.

Paulina said: “Bill has been with us at Crouched Friars since 2021 and has been a lovely presence around the home, so full of life and chatty, everyone loves Bill around the home”.