Smiling George, 102, is a touch of Glass

George Glass celebrates his 102nd birthday at Lindenwood Care Home, New Moston. Pic with his wife Gladys Glass (94).

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A FORMER Japanese prisoner of war celebrates his 102nd birthday today.

George Glass, will celebrate with a party today at Lindenwood Care Home,Nuthurst Road, Moston where he resides with his wife Gladys (94).

Representatives from the poppy appeal and friends will attend the party as they celebrate with George.

Born in 1914, he joined the army in 1933 and was captured by the Japanese in 1941 in Changi, Singapore, and was held in a Japanese prisoner of war camp for more than three years.

During his time there he contracted six tropical diseases and his life was saved in an emergency operation when Captain Eric Cruickshank drained fluid from his brain.

The doctor then prevented the Japanese officers from sending George to the railways as he was too weak to travel.

He was released by the Americans after the Japanese surrendered in 1945 and was taken to Canada before he was transferred back to England.

George stayed in the Army until 1955 and married Gladys during this time.

As well as being a war veteran, George was also secretary at Brookdale Golf Club for 22 years and the club also organised a surprise VJ Day/George Glass celebration in his honour.

Lindenwood Care Home wished George, who they described as a perfect gentleman who would take his hat off to you, a very happy birthday.

Close friend Margaret Redikin said: "He's an inspiration and has a good sense of humour.

"He is a friend to many and from all his friends and his comrades I would like to wish him a very happy birthday."