THE 90-year-old treasurer of Hartlepool's RNLI celebrated his birthday - and 40 years' service with the charity.

Edgar Atkinson celebrated his 90th birthday with his family and the following day was invited to Hartlepool Lifeboat station for a drink and buffet to celebrate his birthday and long years of service as Treasurer with Hartlepool RNLI.

Mike Craddy, operations manager, thanked Mr Atkinson for his hard work over 40 years and presented him with a certificate of thanks from Hartlepool RNLI.

Mr Atkinson, who served with De Haviland Mosquito squadron during the war, was also presented with a model of his favourite aeroplane.

He said: "I have enjoyed my time immensely with the RNLI and it has been a pleasure to be part of such an organisation with such good lads and lasses who give up their time for free to help save lives at sea."

He said he planned to keep up his work as Hartlepool RNLI Treasurer for many years to come.