A DISTINGUISHED war veteran from Oxton has celebrated his 100th birthday this week. 

Mike Carr - an original member of Long Range Desert Group, an organisation adored by the SAS - reached his milestone on Thursday.

Known as 'Lofty' due to his height, he was a navigator in the LRDG and captured as a prisoner of war.

He escaped and walked for hundreds of miles, living off the land, until he was rescued by the American Army.

His career has featured in several history books, including The Long Range Desert Group in World War Two by renowned military historian Gavin Mortimer.

A friend of the family said: "He and his wife Barbara recently celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary and are proud to have two messages of celebration to the Queen.

"Unfortunately, because of coronavirus restrictions, they are unable to have a party to celebrate but the SAS, residents of Oxton, family and friends have made sure that he enjoyed his day with messages of congratulations and wonderful gifts."