Tanks for the memory...Bill's 99th birthday treat

A D-DAY veteran got a surprise trip back in time for his 99th birthday when he was whisked to his party in a Second World War Jeep - with a tank bringing up the rear.

- Jan Disley

Bill Buckley served in Normandy, so his neighbours went on secret manoeuvres to give him the special lift to his celebrations at the pub.

The birthday boy couldn't believe his eyes when he opened his front door to find the wartime vehicles waiting in the street outside.

Close friend Jimmy Murray, 77, said: "Bill didn't have a clue. He was shocked - it was brilliant.

"We said this is the lift to the pub for your birthday party we're having." Bill, of Bebington, Merseyside, was 18 when he was sent to France in June 1944 to fight for his country.