A politics enthusiast and former editor of the Hansard celebrated with neighbours and family as he reached 100 years old.

Richard Dring, who has lived in Sheen all his life, received his card from the Queen on Wednesday, November 6.

Mr Dring, who has always had a keen interest in news and politics, served as an officer in the army during World War II.

His son, 67-year-old Colin Dring, who lives a couple of doors down from his father, said the family had a very enjoyable day with cake and bubbly.

He said: “He really enjoyed the day. He got his card from the Queen and was thrilled. He is a very strong character.

“He has always been involved in playing sport – he played a lot of golf, which I think has helped keep him fit.”

The centenarian started out his journalism career on the Herts Advertiser, before he moved on to Hansard, where rose to the ranks of editor before he retired in 1979, aged 66.

Hansard is the edited verbatim report of proceedings of both the House of Commons and House of Lords.

The birthday man’s only son, who provided him with three grandchildren, said: “He still keeps a very keen interest in politics.

“He loves watching the parliamentary programme on the television and has always been interested in the news.”