Private parade
DOZENS of military personnel past and present took to the streets to surprise a World War Two veteran on his 100th birthday.
Former Private James Watson watched as more than 60 troops gathered to perform a socially-distanced procession past his home in Liverpool.
The grandfather of one, who fought in the Battle of Salerno in Italy in 1943, was almost moved to tears as traditional military vehicles, a piper and fellow servicemen turned out to celebrate his big day. James’s daughter Audrey Roberts, 71, said: “It’s been absolutely amazing and such a nice surprise.
“Seeing all these classic vehicles and so many people taking the time to come and show their faces for Dad has made it so special. I think looking back and reminiscing, you can’t help but get emotional and it clearly meant so much to him.” The drive-by included a Royal Enfield motorbike, military grade Land Rovers from throughout the years and a large tank.
And Audrey added: “Watching the procession even brought back memories for me of the stories he told me growing up.”