THE QUEEN has sent her congratulations to a York resident who recently celebrated his 100th Birthday.

Hugh Mcleod, known to most as Mac, is a resident at Connaught Court in Fulford and celebrated his 100th birthday on January 22nd. Mac was also was surprised and delighted to receive a birthday card from HM The Queen. He also received a telegram from Amber Rudd MP on behalf of the Department of Work and Pensions, thanking him for his many years of service in engineering.

Mac was born in January 1919, just after the end of the first World War, in Norfolk. His father was Scottish, so he was brought up in Kilmarnock, where he later worked driving for the SMT Bus Company. He married his late wife Kathleen in 1944 and spent many years in the Army in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps, with postings all over Europe.

One of Mac’s joys in life has been in his love of karting, which developed during his days in Cyprus in the Army Karting Team. He was a skilled designer, builder and driver of his karts, winning many races and trophies.

A spokesman for the home said that Mac enjoyed a birthday party at the Home with his family, friends and staff. He was presented with a huge homemade cake, flowers, chocolates and a bottle of whiskey.

Activities Coordinator, Fran Tagg, said: “Mac is a true gentleman who has an absolute love of life. He’s a hard working and driven man, gentle but determined! We felt really privileged to celebrate his 100th birthday at our Home.

“It’s wonderful that his contribution has been recognised by Amber Rudd MP and the Department of Work & Pensions. And of course, receiving a card from HM The Queen was lovely. Mac was so surprised, he can’t believe he has reached his great age.”