War veteran takes to skies to mark 100th birthday

War veteran Casey Bukowski celebrated his 100th birthday by flying a glider

An American war veteran has celebrated his 100th birthday by flying from his former air base.

Casey Bukowski served as a waist gunner on a B-17, based at Ridgewell Airfield, near Halstead, Essex, between 1943 and 1944.

Mr Bukowski, who turned 100 on Tuesday, flew a glider at Essex Gliding Club, based at the airfield, on Monday before travelling to Biggin Hill in south-east London to fly in another aircraft.

"I wanted to spend the day doing what I like doing best, which is flying," he said.

Last year Mr Bukowski flew in a Spitfire from Biggin Hill in south-east London

Essex Gliding Club was decked out in honour of Mr Bukowski's visit

In 1944, Mr Bukowski was badly wounded when his B-17 was shot down during a raid over Germany, but he managed to bail out of the stricken bomber.

He currently lives in the United States but has been visiting England to celebrate his centenary.

Mr Bukowski celebrated his 99th birthday last year in the same way, flying in a Spitfire from Biggin Hill.

Mr Bukowski said he did not think he would still be flying at 100, but added: "I consider this near the end of my life and I am living my life the way I want to and having fun."