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Belgium birthday gifts for veteran - 16/06/09

Britain's last First World War veteran has celebrated his 111th birthday with special birthday gifts from the Belgian Ambassador.

Harry Patch, who was a machine-gunner in the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry which served in Ypres in 1917, received a box of Belgian chocolates and books from the Ambassador, Jean-Michel Veranneman de Watervliet, congratulating him on his longevity.

But it was not the first time Mr Patch was given a special gift from Belgium.

On his 110th birthday the Ambassador presented him with Belgium's highest military accolade, the Knights of Leopold medal, which was bestowed by the King of Belgium in recognition of his participation in the Battle of Passchendaele, which claimed the lives of more than 70,000 soldiers.

This year the Ambassador wrote to Mr Patch: "I hope this year will be an equally joyous occasion as last year's celebration."

Family and friends joined Mr Patch in the garden of his care home, Fletcher House, in Wells, Somerset, where they had a small party with strawberry tea and a band of pipers. Although his birthday is not until Wednesday family and friends brought his party forward.

Children from Clyst Vale Community College, Broadclyst, Exeter, who have learnt about Mr Patch in history lessons, baked cakes and sent handmade cards.

     

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