A POPULAR figure in the cricket has celebrated a true century by reaching his 100th birthday.

Sidney John Riddell, known as Sam to most, was born in Burton-on-Trent, in Staffordshire, in June 1918.

He relocated to the North-East during the war years and settled in Staindrop, near Barnard Castle, after the move.

The centenarian now lives in Darlington’s Riverside View Care Home, off Hutton Avenue, and he spent his birthday there surrounded by his family, including his son, Neil.

Mr Riddell was a keen and talented cricketer and he captained several teams in Darlington during his playing days.

However, his true love in life was his wife, Dot. The pair met when Mr Riddell accidentally walked into her house, thinking it was actually the pub.

He never left after making the happy mistake.

Staff at the Riverside View Care Home said Mr Riddell used to holiday in Blackpool and was also a keen gardener, growing vegetables and flowers in his allotment.

Mr Riddell is also known for being charitable and raising money for several causes over the years.