AN OLD Basing resident born the day after the end of the First World War has celebrated his 100th birthday.

Victor Bulpitt, who was named Victor in honour of the victorious end of the war, celebrated his 100 years on Monday with a party at Basingfield Court Residential Care Home in Huish Lane, where he has lived for the past four years.

Born and bred in Sherfield-on-Loddon to parents Maud and Arthur, Victor grew up in a busy household with five older siblings – two brothers, Bob and Cecil, and three sisters Wynn, Phyllis and Hilda.

His mother was a housewife, taking care of Victor and his brothers and sisters, while his father Arthur was a farmer.

After his academic years at Sherfield Church School, Victor’s first job was working at Brahms Mill at the age of 14, where he looked after pheasants for just £1 a week.

Following in his father’s footsteps, he later went onto work for a farmer where his main responsibility was to catch the rabbits, until he was called to serve with the military for seven years during the Second World War.

During his line of duty, Victor served on the Isle of Wight and in Germany.

Celebrating his birthday, one day after Remembrance Sunday, Victor said: “They were very long and tough years but I am proud of the time I served in the army.”

After the end of the Second World War, Victor and his brother Cecil joined forces to run their own painter and decorator company.

Along with his love for his family, Victor also has a real love and passion for music and Reading Football Club.

In his younger years the centenarian used to enjoy attending local dances and has always enjoyed to sing.

Victor added: “I can easily spend my whole day singing.”

When asked what the secret to a long and happy life, is he responded: “No secret really, but I have always worked hard and had a real passion for music.

“Life without music would be very dull.”