ONE of Britain's oldest citizens celebrated his 107th birthday in Christchurch yesterday morning.

There are very few people alive today born before Jack Ellis, who came into this world in Worcester on August 22, 1901.

Unlike the UK's oldest man, Henry Allingham who celebrated his 112th birthday in June, Mr Ellis just missed out on serving in the First World War.

He was educated at the Royal Grammar School, Worcester, left school at 16 and went on to become an engineer in the aircraft and railway signalling industries.

He remained with railway signalling, a reserved occupation, during the Second World War but was part of the Worcester Air Raid Warden Section.

He married Ethel in the 1920s and they moved to the St Catherine's Hill area of Christchurch in 1962 upon his retirement.

A keen churchgoer, Mr Ellis was an elder at the town's Congregational Church.

Ethel died 12 years ago and he remained in his home until last autumn when he moved into respite care and then Avon View Nursing Home, where he now lives.

Mr Ellis continued to drive until he was 100 years old.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Christchurch (David and Denise Flagg) were among 70 or so guests who attended the birthday party at Avon View.

Cllr Flagg, who gave him a potted peace lily, said: "We met him when we came here for the summer fete."

His wife said: "He said he would like the mayor there for his 107th birthday so here we are today."

After Ivo the Clown had led the guests in singing Happy Birthday, Mr Ellis said: "I never expected such a wonderful gathering as this today.

"I think it's all very wonderful and I congratulate you all for coming to wish me all the best."

Mr Ellis, who has never smoked or drunk alcohol, told the Echo: "I've tried to lead a decent life and be kind to people."

He hopes to be around for a few more years yet. "I've plenty of punch," he said.