Surprise birthday party honours 103-year-old D-Day veteran believed to be Cyprus' last
A Second World War veteran has celebrated his birthday amongst friends and family in Cyprus.
Harold Fenwick, aged 103, landed in Normandy on D-Day and was wounded by a mortar while fighting his way through France with the Scottish Rifles.
He is believed to be the last British war veteran living on the island.
A surprise party with live music, cake, and cards was organised in Kouklia, where the veteran has lived for 30 years.
In a speech at the party, Harold said: "I have enjoyed these years, very, very much. I never looked back; I always looked forward to the next challenge."
He added that he is "still facing them".
After enjoying a 103-year-old themed birthday cake, Harold treated the party to a version of the wartime classic 'We'll meet again', sung and made famous by Dame Vera Lynn.
Members of 1st Battalion The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, who are based nearby at Episkopi Garrison, also joined the party to wish Harold a happy birthday.
The Greatest Generation
Born on 31 March 1923, Harold, who is originally from Glasgow, served in the 9th Battalion Cameronians.
As part of the 15th Scottish Infantry Division, he landed with thousands of others at Arromanches-les-Bain in Normandy, in 1944.
Surviving machine guns and booby traps, Harold was hit by a mortar round and was sent back to the UK, where he ended the war as a driver in Edinburgh.
His brother, Stanley, was killed at the age of 20 while serving in the Royal Air Force when his Halifax bomber was shot down. Harold's wife, Sheila, died eight years ago.
Cards were delivered to the centenarian by school children, including a letter from the British High Commissioner of Nicosia, Michael Tatham.
It read: "Warmest congratulations and heartfelt good wishes on this special occasion.
"I would also like to add my thanks for all your service to the United Kingdom during your time as a member of the Armed Forces."
In recent years, the veteran has been supported by local charities, including SSAFA Cyprus.
"Harold's story is a powerful reminder of the experiences and sacrifices made by his generation," said Stephen Boswell, Regional Manager for Casework and Community Engagement.
"Reaching the age of 103 is an extraordinary milestone, and it's only right that we take the time to recognise and celebrate both his life and service."
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