A war veteran has celebrated his 101st birthday just days after recovering from coronavirus.

Stanley Bowdery, who fought in France and Italy during the Second World War, was diagnosed with Covid-19 at the start of May after displaying symptoms of the virus.

Instead of being taken to hospital, Mr Bowdery was looked after at his care home in Barnet – Carlton Court - and recovered from the virus two days before his 101st birthday.

Mr Bowdery grew up in Peckham and went on to study at college to be an engineer, later working for Ford.

He was later called up to join the Royal Engineers, serving his country by fighting in both France and Italy during WW2. Following the end of the war he was posted to Egypt.

Times Series:

Stanley Bowdery fought during WW2

Due to the pandemic visitors were not able to join Mr Bowdery for his birthday last month, but family members were able to celebrate the day through video calls.

Mr Bowdery said: “I am so proud of my lovely family, I have lots of grandchildren who I miss seeing but the home has arranged for me to speak to them on video calls.”

Carlton Court Home Manager Julie Bignell said: “We are so glad Stanley recovered from the virus in time to celebrate his 101st birthday with us.

“He is a great character and has shown tremendous resilience for a third time in his life, and it was lovely hearing him tell his life story.

“The staff have worked hard to create a fun, enabling environment for our residents who benefit from top quality care. This would not have been possible without everyone at Carlton Court pulling together during this difficult time.”