VILLAGERS celebrated the 100th birthday of a popular resident - at a safe distance in their front gardens, driveways and on their doorsteps.

Bill Howe, who lives in Skelton near Penrith, celebrated his milestone anniversary on Friday.

And, his daughter, with the help of the village, created a community party - while following government guidelines on social distancing.

At 10am a new flag was raised in the village and the honour was given to Bill, but this was just the first part of his day of celebrations.

Neighbours stood at the ends of their driveways waving banners and singing happy birthday as he was taken on a special drive around the village to see everything that had been organised.

The 100-year-old worked all his life as an engineer in the northeast, he trained countless people over the years who all have fond memories of him.

His daughter Pauline Piper said: “We had an amazing childhood and dad would always make things for us which was special.

“As we grew up we took all our holidays in the Lake District which resulted in me moving here after falling in love with the area and then Mum and Dad followed.

“We planned the drive-by celebrations as we’re not able to hold the normal celebration we planned.

“We were going to hire a car like the one he first owned.

The father of two instilled a love of the countryside into his family and the community showed their love for him.

After touring the village the technology-loving centenarian took part in a family video call and everyone was able to send well wishes.

Vintage motorbikes and the honour of raising the new flag helped make the day one to remember. Pauline added: “Dad is such a kind and generous person, he is just happy all the time.

“It was so nice to see how much everyone appreciated him and came out to support him.”