A FORMER boxer saw in his 100th birthday with the help of local youngsters.

Town centre-born Eric Caffery celebrated the momentous milestone on Sunday - when 100 youngsters from Brampton Cortonwood Infant School sang happy birthday to him.

The children were symbolic of all of the years that Eric has lived so far, marking his birthday with a touching surprise.

The school also sent a livestream to Eric, celebrating his birthday - for which he got over 300 cards, thanks to the thoughtful outreach of Conifers Nursing Home in Wombwell.

Amongst his most exciting gifts, Eric received a celebratory card from King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Eric was a loyal employee for Fox’s Steelworks, where he worked all his life, in order to provide for his wife and son.

Eric and his wife, Maria, had a love story that spanned over multiple decades and they welcomed one child, Alan, together.

He also has two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.

Maria died in 2003, with the couple being married for over 40 years.

Eric will mark becoming a centenarian with his loving family, when they go out for a celebratory meal.

As a music lover with a passion for physical activity, Eric has enjoyed hobbies such as playing the piano, jazz music and boxing in his youth.

Eric is also an avid football fan, supporting no club in particular.

Alan has nothing but love for his father, detailing their relationship and how he has achieved living to such an impressive age.

He said: “My dad is the absolute perfect gentleman.

“He’s the perfect father and has been a role model to me for all of my life.

“We’re going out for a meal with all of the family at Wentworth.

“He’s lived to 100 because of exercise, good eating and he has worked hard all of his life.

“He used to do a bit of yoga when he was younger and played football for his school.”