ONE of the region's oldest residents has celebrated his 105th birthday.

Far from putting his feet up, Fred Dickinson, from Hartlepool, still leads an active social life.

A regular bridge player, he is often in his local pub enjoying a pint or shopping in his local supermarket.

He celebrated Tuesday's birthday two days early with his family and friends.

He said: "I have had parties every year since I was 100, and I can say this was the best one I have ever had."

Mr Dickinson was born in Lincoln in 1899, but moved to Hartlepool in 1924 to work as a mechanic installing heavy machinery. When he turned 18, the country was still in the First World War.

Mr Dickinson joined the Royal Navy, but by the time he completed his training, the Armistice Treaty had been signed.

During the Second World War, he was head of the region's civil defence, co-ordinating the blackouts during air raids, for which he received the MBE.

His first wife, Muriel, died shortly after the couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary.

Aged 90, he tied the knot again to Hilda, ten years his junior, who died in 1998.

He said he had no secret for long life, but advised people to laugh.

He said: "I still enjoy a drink and my frozen meals and am not giving them up.

"However, the best thing people can do to stay fit is enjoy varied activities and have a laugh.

"A laugh is the best cure for a lot of things."