UK’s oldest man turns 108

LONDON - Britain’s oldest man celebrated his 108th birthday yesterday.

The Rev Reg Dean, from Derbys, who received his ninth telegram from the Queen as he celebrated his birthday admitted that there’s five secrets to a long life but he can only remember four of them as he celebrate his 108th birthday yesterday.

During his lifetime Reg has survived two world wars and seen 24 Prime Ministers come and go.

Rev Dean, who was born in Staffordshire in 1902, became the country’s oldest man in June following the death of Stanley Lucas, aged 110 from Cornwall.

He said, “Good friends, a religion, looking for the best in people not the worst, and being a vegetarian for 30 years have all helped I but I can’t remember the other one,” the Daily Mail quoted him a saying.

“My health couldn’t be better and I have few aches and pains, for which I am very grateful. My birthday has been a big effort but I appreciate the help of my friends.”

During World War II he served as an army chaplain having become a minister.

In 1958 he became a teacher in Derby where he remained for ten years. He retired 28 years ago aged 80 and in the late 1980’s he helped found the Dalesmen Male Voice Choir, of which he is still life president.

“I’ve always been very busy and that’s how I enjoy it,” he said.

He has one son, Chris, 60, who celebrated with him, and two grandchildren. (ANI)