TEARFUL war veteran James Neabard raised a glass in honour of fallen comrades after welcoming a special visitor.

As reported in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, Mr Neabard, 103, is believed to be East Lancashire's oldest surviving hero to serve in the First World War.

And he was presented with a gift by Hyndburn's Mayor Coun Ian Ormerod to raise his spirits on Armistice Day.

The former Cheshire regiment private, who fought in France, was delighted when the Mayor called in with a cut glass tankard containing his favourite tipple -- a drink of bitter. Coun Ormerod, the mayoress Mrs Pat Ormerod, Hyndburn Council chief executive Mike Chambers and Accrington British Legion President George Howard called on Mr Neobard after observing the national two-minute silence.

Mr Neobard, who lives at Hill Top Home for the Elderly, Manchester Road, Accrington, was awarded the British War Medal for serving in the Great War.

Coun Ormerod said: "We thought it would be nice to rally round because Mr Neabard has been quite upset by the occasion.

"We found out from the home what his favourite drink was and took him a cut glass tankard and a can of bitter.

"He really seemed to enjoy it and it cheered him up a lot. He's a lovely chap and the residents were all thrilled.

"We like to do something for our special citizens and if anyone thinks of a special occasion they only have to let us know."

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