HATCHES Green resident Fred Chapman celebrated the New Year in style last week — with a telegram from the Queen.

Fred celebrated his 100th birthday on New Year's Day and was presented with his congratulatory message from the Queen by Captain Dick Madge of the Royal Navy, a family friend.

Fred was born in Hastings in Sussex — one of five brothers who all served during the second world war.

Fred was in the Royal Navy and saw service with HMS Javelin during the Arctic convoy runs.

After leaving the navy, Fred worked as a glazier. He and his wife, Lilian, had one son, David.

Following his retirement and as a result of a friendship with a local undertaker, Fred became a pallbearer, working right up until his move to the Gunnislake area ten years ago.

Fred has made many friends in East Cornwall and until very recently enjoyed ballroom dancing with groups in Callington and Harrowbarrow.

He now lives with his son David and daughter-in-law, Anne, and enjoys reading — and the odd flutter on the horses!

Fred celebrated his big day with a party for family and friends and received many messages of congratulations during his birthday from as far afield as Australia and New Zealand, where his grandson currently lives.