A MAN who has raised thousands of pounds for charity celebrated his 104th birthday yesterday.

To mark the occasion, a tea party was held for Sidney Arrowsmith at the Darlington residential home where he has lived for three years.

In his younger days, Mr Arrowsmith was a keen walker and one of the first people to use the Pennine Way route.

His love of rambling led to a series of sponsored walks, including coast to coast events, and over the years he has raised thousands of pounds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

The charity was so touched by his dedication that it presented him with a plaque.

Joanne Scott, the deputy manager of the Elderwood Residential Home, in Westmoreland Street, said: "Sidney is a very popular man and well-liked by other residents and staff. He likes talking about his work for charity as well as telling rude jokes.

"He celebrated his birthday with a tea party, including a cake, and lots of his friends came to visit him.

"Despite his age, he is still a member of the Hopetown Social Club and attends every week."