A MAN described by family and friends as a living legend has reached the grand age of 108 today.

Tom Peers will celebrate the amazing milestone with his friends and staff at Riversdale Care Home in West Kirby.

Born in Birkenhead in 1913, he is described by granddaughter Jess Clarke as as a 'living legend' - an incredible man who has lived through two world wars.

The father of three, grandfather of seven and great-grand of five was a butcher at the Co-op for 50 years. He travelled the Middle East as a chef in World War II.

He has spent his whole life in Wirral and is described as the strong figurehead of a loving and ever-growing family.

Wirral Globe:

Tom, aged around 11, 1924. Picture courtesy of Jess Clarke

Celebrating her grandfather's birthday, granddaughter Jess Clark Jess told the Globe: "He retains a great sense of humour, has a razor-sharp memory of his many years and experiences, and captivates many an audience with his stories of old and new.

"He is a living legend and touches the hearts of everyone he meets.

"It has been a difficult time for Tom during the Covid-19 restrictions which have prevented his family and friends from visiting him in his care home.

"Shortly before the Covid-19 restrictions he moved into a care home after a series of falls so a lot of changes have happened over a short period of time.

"He is very much loved by all and we want him to know this more than ever on his special day.

Wirral Globe:

Tom, in summer 2019, aged 106, enjoying half a bitter with his two sons . Picture courtesy of Jess Clarke

"He has remained well, albeit isolated from family and friends much of the year until recently but under the excellent care of the care home staff, and has had both vaccines now.

"He is thrilled to be able to have two regular family members to visit now.

"He remains on great form and beat his seven-year-old great granddaughter at dominoes last weekend!

"I've inundated him with letters and photos in the meantime and have missed him greatly this last year.

"We're planning a small socially distanced garden get-together with family at his home."

From all of us at the Wirral Globe, have a very happy birthday Tom.