A BORN and bred Reading man who volunteered as a stretcher bearer at the D-Day landings has celebrated his 90th birthday.

Surrounded by family and friends Raymond Gregory was joined for a bumper bash at the Salvation Army in Oxford Road.

Growing up as one of seven children in West Reading the loyal salvationist was joined by scores of well wishers for his big day.

Son Malcolm Gregory said: "Ray thoroughly enjoyed his party, as did the whole family. The toddlers had a little soft play area to play in and there was a rolling photo slide show of memories going back over many years."

With loved ones assembled the family shared memories of Ray's life in the town including his attendance at his party venue's grand opening.

Malcolm added: "He is number one on the corps Roll of Honour, attended the opening of the hall after it was constructed in the 1930s. To attend this he bunked off from Wilson School which is close by."

When just 17 Ray signed up to join the army and found himself working as a stretcher bearer on D-Day as well as seeing action in the Battle of Arnhem and receiving a shrapnel injury in Operation Veritable in the Reichswald Forest.

After the war he returned home to Reading where he worked in construction, for the Royal Mail and as a familiar face in Harringtons hardware store in Southcote.

Malcolm said: "Sadly, our mother passed away two years ago but Ray has shown remarkable strength and fortitude to continue at the head of our family which includes the three children, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

"The Reading West Salvation Army Hall is a special place for Ray. He has been a loyal salvationist and brass band member all of his life."

A crowd of around 80 turned out on the day on October 10 and music was provided by the 3 Gs - a band formed of three of Ray's grandchildren.