Alfie Boe sings Happy Birthday to UK's oldest man

Opera star Alfie Boe has serenaded the UK's oldest man with a special version of Happy Birthday as he turned 110.

The singer made a special appearance, by video call, during Donald Rose's celebrations on Tuesday.

Mr Boe said it had been a pleasure to sing for Mr Rose, from Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

The 110-year-old said it had been "very nice" to hear Mr Boe sing and rewarded him with a round of applause.

The call, organised by staff at the Canal Vue care home where Mr Rose lives, was part of a day of celebrations involving the former soldier's family, friends and civic dignitaries.

He even received a card from Buckingham Palace.

Mr Rose was born in Westcott in Surrey on 24 December 1914 and served in World War Two with the Queen's Royal Regiment.

After joining the army, he trained as a sniper and served in North Africa and Europe, and said he put his longevity down to salty water he had to drink during his time in the desert.

Among the guests at his birthday celebration was Mayor of Erewash, Kate Fennelly, who described the veteran as "a national treasure".

Mr Rose's son David, 76, said: "Dad is just amazing he has been a great father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

"He always worked so hard. After the war, he drove a dust cart, then worked for the gas board and he would do any work to put food on the family table.

"He was as strong as an ox.

"It's amazing to think my dad is the oldest man in the country. We've all had a really lovely day and it's a great way to start Christmas."

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