D-Day veteran turns 100 with 15,000 cards

Doug Shelley joined the Royal Navy aged 17 and served as a seaman gunner in World War Two

A war veteran who experienced some of the most critical moments of World War Two received 15,000 birthday cards as he turned 100.

Doug Shelley, from Essex, joined the Royal Navy aged 17, and took part in the D-Day landings and the Arctic convoys during his service.

He celebrated with dozens of friends at the Royal Naval Association Club (RNA) in Southend on Tuesday, receiving gifts from all over the world as well as a personalised card from the King.

Carol Pendrigh, committee member of the Southend Branch of the RNA said: "Dougie is not just a veteran, he's a true local hero."

She added: "His service means so much, and we want to ensure his 100th birthday is one he will never forget."

After everyone sang Happy Birthday, Mr Shelley said he was feeling "lovely" and the day "couldn't be better".

The greetings haul was a response to an appeal by the Southend branch of the RNA, who wanted to make Mr Shelley's milestone birthday extra special.

World War Two veteran Dougie Shelley turned 100 on Tuesday

Doug Shelley received more than 15,000 cards and various gifts from all over the world.

Among the cards Doug received was a personalised version from the King and Queen, as well as a card from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

One of the last surviving World War Two veterans, Mr Shelley served as a seaman gunner, taking part in the Normandy landings in June 1944.

The Royal Naval Association in Southend ensured Mr Shelley's day was extra special

A special Victoria sponge cake was made by branch chairman John Hawes, who was a chef and a baker on aircraft carrier HMS Eagle

His carer, Paul Bennet, 77, said Mr Shelley had received more than 15,000 cards as well as scratch cards, bottles of rum, mugs and money.

"I'm elated but quite tired," he said.

"We've been mentally working on Doug to sort him out, get him here and give him the time of his life which he has richly deserved - it's been an honour."

Gary Mailley, 72, who has known Mr Shelley for almost 30 years, described him as a "lovable rogue" who "loved women".

"He's a character and I am so proud we are celebrating his 100th birthday here," he said.

Mr Shelley has not been to the club regularly due to his health but Mr Mailley said he would be welcome any time, and had his own chair.

"It makes me feel so proud to be British that we're celebrating this way for someone who has reached this milestone," he added.

The Southend branch of the RNA pulled out all the stops to mark Mr Shelley's birthday