A Burford great-great-grandfather who designed fighter planes in the Second World War has celebrated reaching 100.

Alan Freemantle, pictured with his card from the Queen, reached the milestone on Tuesday, when he enjoyed a party with his family.

He was then treated to a second celebration by fellow residents at the sheltered housing in Hunts Close on Thursday. Mr Freemantle thanked everyone at the event for their support and friendship. He said he had a lovely party and he was very proud to have received the card from the Queen.

Oxford Citizens’ Housing Association’s resident involvement officer Richard Grant said: “It was brilliant. He’s a grand old man.”

During and after the Second World War, Mr Freemantle worked on aircraft design, including modifications to the design of the legendary Supermarine Spitfire fighter plane.

Mr Freemantle, who was married in 1943, lived and worked in Southampton and later in Hatfield.

He has four great-great grandchildren.