BIRTHDAY boy Brian Wilson has celebrated reaching 100 not out – and puts it down to exercise, classical music and his decision to quit smoking.

The Second World War veteran, below, was guest of honour at the WRVS centre in Hanley yesterday, where he still sees his friends three times a week.

And Brian, a former 30-a-day smoker, believes he wouldn't have reached the 100 club if it wasn't for his decision to kick the habit.

He said: "To be honest I'm surprised I'm still here at all.

"I was a heavy smoker for years. I used to smoke up to 30 a day, because it was fashionable to do so back then.

"I quit smoking when I was 60 because I was very poorly. It got to the point where I was struggling to breathe and couldn't walk to see the doctor, he had to come to me.

"It took me seven long years to get all of that smoke out of my system, but I managed to quit and I feel much better for doing so.

"I've always been an active person and enjoyed exercise. When I was younger I was a member of two operatic societies, five rugby clubs, two cricket clubs, a swimming and a rotary club.

"I think all that exercise is the reason why I've lived so long. I also listen to Classic FM from when I wake up to when I go to bed and I think that helps to keep my brain active."

Brian, a father of two, was born and grew up in Liverpool, where he worked as a cost accountant at British American Tobacco.

He resigned after becoming "bored" and got a job working for Unilever, which saw him move to Leeds and Glasgow.

In the Second World War he served with the paratroops, and saw action at The Battle of the Bulge in Belgium in late 1944, as well as being flown into combat over the Rhine.

After the war finished, he moved with his job to Stoke-on-Trent – and says he has loved every minute.

Brian, who lives in Brandon Grove, Hanford, said: "When I told my wife, Peggy, who has now passed away, she said 'why the hell would you want to move there?'

"But I said we should give it a go and I've never regretted it.

"The people are friendly and I have made a lot of friends."

Brian, who celebrated his actual birthday on Monday with his family before yesterday's celebration, attends the WRVS centre, in Charles Street, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The grandfather of three, and two-times great-grandfather, said: "It's a brilliant service. They come and pick me up from home and take me back, and I get to talk to a lot of people.

"It's good just to get out of the house and be involved with other people."

Carol Warrilow, care co-ordinator at the centre, said Brian was a very popular character among staff and visitors.

She said: "We are delighted for him to be celebrating his 100th birthday.

"He has been coming here for 18 months now and he is in very good condition, both physically and mentally, considering he's 100 years old.

"Everyone loves him and listening to the stories he has got to tell."