A former chemist celebrated his centenary with family in his Woodford Green home of 50 years which he watched being built.

Donald Turner, of Rivington Avenue, Woodford Green, had his 100th birthday party on Friday surrounded by his daughters, Valerie Price, 51 and Melanie Turner, 48, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Valerie, who lives in Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, said: “It went very well. He was pleased to see all the family, it was lovely.”

Mr Turner was a chemist with the Ministry of Defence until his retirement aged 65.

He was married for 49 years to Dorothy, known as Dot, until she died in 1999.

He took up supply teaching in Redbridge schools following his retirement and was still helping young people with English, maths and science until eight years ago.

Mr Turner’s favourite pastimes included ballroom dancing, table tennis, walking holidays and swimming.

And he still goes for the occasional dip with his family, according to Valerie.

Along with four grandchildren - Verity Price, 22; Evangeline Wright, 18; Yasmin Turner, 21; and Ebrahim Turner, 18 – and two great-grandchildren - Logan Stringer, 16 months old, and Alistair Wright, 10 months old – the 100-year-old enjoyed a tea party with a cake and sandwiches.