'Inspirational' man, 108, celebrates birthday
John Shannon's 108th birthday was celebrated with a party at Hampden House nursing home in Harrogate
- Published
Britain's fifth oldest man has celebrated the "amazing milestone" of turning 108.
John Shannon, who lives in Harrogate, marked the occasion with a champagne toast during birthday celebrations at a nursing home.
Herbert Henry Asquith was Prime Minister and King George V was on the throne when Mr Shannon was born in 1916.
He is the eldest of four brothers and has two children, nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
His daughter Ilene said the whole family considered him "a very special person" who was loved by all.
Mr Shannon spent a large part of his life involved in voluntary work, including running a boxing gym prior to the outbreak of World War Two.
After volunteering as a bomb disposal expert during the conflict, he devoted hours to organisations such as the Red Cross and the English Football Association.
More recently, he has been involved with the Harrogate Easier Living Project, Age UK and telephone befriending.
"It’s been a privilege to contribute to my community in meaningful ways," he said, putting his love of volunteering down to his parents.
John Shannon volunteered as a bomb disposal expert during World War Two
Speaking at a party at Hampden House, he said he was "surprised" at the number of people who had turned up.
"We're all pretty ancient and most of us can't walk around," he joked.
Asked about his youthful appearance, he said he put it down to "a good wife, a good family and good food".
Joanna Graczyk-Wozniak, social engagement lead at Hampden House, said Mr Shannon was "an inspiration" who had "infectious positivity and spirit".
Mr Shannon was a guest of honour at the 75th anniversary celebrations of the founding of the Belgian Navy in Zeebrugge in 2022
Staff and residents at the home were thrilled to celebrate "this amazing milestone", she added, and called it a good excuse to "recognise all the wonderful things he’s done for our community".
Asked about the time he was given a volunteering award from Queen Camilla, Mr Shannon said she asked him how he stayed so young.
He said he replied "by having a good wife", with Queen Camilla responding: "I shall have to tell Charles tonight."
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