A SPECIAL party was held at Redvers House, Crediton for resident Dougie Gay on the occasion of his 90th birthday, writes Margaret Tucker.

Dougie has no relations and it was his carer Jo who organised the party for him in the Community Room.

She arranged a delicious birthday tea, with a celebration cake and invited residents and friends to join the celebrations.

They included members of the Crediton branch of the Royal British Legion, of which Dougie is a member.

He was born in Exeter but grew up in Copplestone with his grandparents.

He went to the old Copplestone School, later to school at North Tawton.

He served in the Army for more than 22 years, first as a National Serviceman, then with the Gunners, serving in Libya, Hong Kong, Kenya, Aden, South Korea and more.

He once met Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

When he returned, he then worked for Kelly’s at Spencecombe, as a delivery driver.

Later, after his partner died, he moved to Sunnymead, Copplestone, later living on The Lynch at Crediton.

For 10 years, he has lived at Redvers House, where he says he has been very happy.

Sadly the lift was not working at Redvers House and Dougie could not get down to the Community Room for his party.

Visitors took it in turns to walk up the stairs to wish him Happy Birthday and left gifts and cards.

Dougie said he had a wonderful 90th birthday and thanked everyone for making it such a great and memorable occasion.