A World War Two veteran celebrated his 100th birthday with his huge extended family - which includes 76 great grandchildren, 27 grandchildren, and six children.

Retired railway signalman John Tate, who was married for 63 years and also has nine great-great grandchildren, was surrounded by family and friends as he marked the occasion at a party in a village hall.

During the celebration, Mr Tate, from Kings Worthy, Hampshire, opened his birthday card from the Queen - which he was not expecting.

World War Two veteran John Tate (at the front) celebrated his 100th birthday with his huge extended family

Mr Tate (centre) has 76 great grandchildren, 27 grandchildren, and six children

He said: 'All my family and friends were there, it was an excellent day.'

His son David added: 'He was the centre of attention and he loved every bit of it. There were around 170 people there celebrating.'

Family and friends who attended the special occasion sang together to celebrate the landmark birthday.

Helen Hutber, a family friend, said: 'It was a fabulous day. A lot of his family performed songs, a really good day.

'He loved his surprise card from the Queen, which he was not expecting at all.'

Mr Tate (pictured), from Kings Worthy, Hampshire, also opened his birthday card from the Queen