UK's Oldest Man Donald Rose Turns 110

Donald Rose, the UK's oldest man and a World War II veteran, is set to celebrate his 110th birthday on Christmas Eve with a wartime-themed party at his care home in Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Rose, who served as a sniper and Desert Rat, was shot during the D-Day landings and has been recognized for his bravery with numerous medals, including the prestigious Legion d'Honneur. Mayor Kate Fennelly will present him with a specially made cake, praising him as a 'true national treasure'. Rose attributes his longevity to humorous anecdotes about his wartime diet, claiming his insides were 'pickled' from drinking sea water and eating dog biscuits. Carer Naomi Allsop expressed admiration for him, noting that he considers the fallen soldiers as true heroes. Rose, who has one grandchild and three great-grandchildren, has lived at the care home since 2020 and enjoys sharing stories and songs with residents and staff.