A World War Two veteran and lifelong Liverpool FC fan enjoyed a 100th birthday celebration with a lovely surprise when Liverpool’s greatest ever player, Sir Kenny Dalglish, called in to congratulate him.
Bob Laverty was among troops who fought in the D-Day landings that kick-started the road to victory for the Allies in June 1944.
He is one of the few surviving D-Day veterans in the UK.
He marked his special occasion at Birkdale Tower Lodge care home in Birkdale in Southport with a special party organised by Southport Royal British Legion and staff at the home.
Sir Kenny Dalglish and Marine Dalglish were among the VIP guests, along with Southport Royal British Legion President Serena Silcock-Prince.
King Charles III sent a special 100th birthday card while entertainment was provided by Scottish pipers and a 1940s style singer.
Southport Royal British President Serena Silcock-Prince said:
“It was a lovely day! Bob was absolutely thrilled.
“He is a lifelong Liverpool FC fan so it was brilliant for him when Sir Kenny Dalglish and Marina Dalglish walked in to wish him happy birthday.
“He looked shocked! But delighted at the same time. It was a lovely surprise for him.
“It was a special occasion to be part of. Nick and Sarah McEntee from Southport Royal British Legion did a fabulous job in organising everything for him.
“Bob enjoyed showing me his special 100th birthday card from the King and Queen.
“I gave him a birthday card from me but I couldn’t compete with that one!
“It was a great atmosphere. Everyone was clapping and singing. It was so beautiful.
“I enjoyed speaking with Bob’s sons, his grandchildren and the rest of his family members who were there. They were thrilled.
“Bob is a lovely man.
“The team at Birkdale Tower Lodge were excellent. What a beautiful care home! They have their own hair salon, their own putting green, and some amazing facilities for the residents.”
A spokesperson for Birkdale Tower Lodge care home in Southport said:
“Bob had such a wonderful day celebrating his 100th birthday in style.
“With help from Southport Royal British Legion, we had very special guests, which included a fantastic singer, Beverly, and the most amazing performance from the bagpipes.
“It was a pleasure to welcome Sir Kenny Dalglish and his wife, Marina Dalglish, who came to make Bob’s day so special. Thank you!
“And thank you to everyone who was involved in making it a fantastic day.”
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