A FORMER Guardian correspondent and one of its original founding members has turned 100 years old this week.

William Lewis, formerly of Milo, and now living in Cartref Ael y Bryn care home, Penybanc, celebrated at a special party on Monday.

Mr Lewis first started writing his column - Nodion Bro a Bryn - for the South Wales Guardian back in 1956, he was a good friend of founder Gwynne Evans and had a hand in helping set up the Guardian in 1955.

Sadly, due to ill health Mr Lewis was forced to retire as correspondent in recent years before he moved into Cartref Ael y Bryn.

The home put on a party for Mr Lewis where former neighbours, friends from Milo Chapel and old choir boys turned out to see him.

An overwhelmed Mr Lewis said: "I cannot believe how many people have come along. It is lovely to have so many visitors, especially the Guardian.

"I have fond memories of the South Wales Guardian and I wish Angela Morris and the rest of the team well. I miss calling in to see them on a Friday afternoon."

Amongst those to congratulate Mr Lewis was Jonathan Edwards MP who went along to the Penybanc home a few days before his birthday to wish him a happy birthday.

Mr Edwards said: "It was an absolute pleasure to meet Mr Lewis, a man who has lived and worked in the community his entire life.

"We had a fascinating discussion on his work as a local journalist.

"It was a honour to chat with him and offer my warmest congratulations on his very special birthday."

On Monday, joining Mr Lewis was friend and County Councillor Cefin Campbell who was on hand to help Mr Lewis open his special card from the Queen.

Cllr Campbell said: "William Lewis is a true gentleman and quite the character. As his local county councillor I would visit him often. I congratulate him on reaching 100 years old, it's quite the achievement."

Managing Director of Cartref Ael y Bryn Thasan Yoganathan said it was an honour to have Mr Lewis at the home.

Adding: "William has received numerous cards and gifts and we were happy to be able to give him a party on his very special birthday."

Blown away by the messages Mr Lewis said: "I had no idea just how many friends I had. It has been a wonderful day."