PEOPLE at Middlesbrough's Newport Day Care Centre have raised their glasses in salute to a regular visitor.

Charlie Simpson who is fond of whisky and crisps, had plenty to celebrate his 100th birthday with this week.

Sainsbury's sent the former railway worker and plumber a bottle of whisky and crisps have promised him 100 bags of his favourite Hula Hoops.

Mr Simpson, originally from London, moved to Teesside ten years ago, after befriending 49-year-old Maxine and her mother Grace, 71.

Teessider Maxine McGill lived in Battersea for three years where she used to clean Mr Simpson's flat. He decided to move to the North-East after Maxine invited him to Middlesbrough for holiday trips.

He visits the Newport Day Centre four times a week, where he likes nothing better than a good chat.

Staff at the centre laid on a surprise birthday party for Mr Simpson this week.

Despite his age, Mr Simpson, who lost his wife, Kathleen 50 years ago, still lives independently in the town.

Ann Forster, manager at the day centre said: "Charlie is quite a character at the day centre. He loves reminiscing about his time in London and looks forward to trips out from the day centre. We all enjoy Charlie's company."