Happy 107th Birthday, Harold Hodgson!

A remarkable milestone for one of the North East’s oldest residents, whose extraordinary life includes five years of service in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War.

Harold celebrated his 107th birthday at The Grange Care Home in Darlington, surrounded by family, friends, music and well-wishers. But the celebrations became even more special after a birthday card appeal received an overwhelming response, with more than 300 cards arriving from across the UK, far exceeding the original target of 107.

Born in Darlington on November 7, 1919, Harold joined the RAF at the age of 22 and served for five years as ground staff. His wartime service took him to Belgium, France, Germany and the Netherlands.

During the celebrations, representatives of the Royal British Legion presented him with a medal recognising his wartime service. The Mayor of Darlington also attended to offer his birthday wishes.

Harold’s family described him as someone who has always enjoyed an active lifestyle, with swimming, cycling, badminton, walking and hiking among his favourite pastimes.

His daughter, Christine Gibbon, said he had always been the life and soul of the party and that reaching 107 was an incredible achievement.

However, perhaps the most touching moment came when Harold told the care home team that it had been “the best day of his life”.

A heartfelt celebration for a remarkable man whose life spans more than a century of history.