103-year-old recalls happy summer holidays, working on the land and wartime achievements.

Leslie, who lives at Southfield House, Lincoln, was born the end of the First World War.

His father was head gardener for the Maples family and Leslie grew up with two older sisters and an older brother.

He left school at 14 and started work on the land with his father, which was interrupted by the Second World War when he served Malta, North Africa and Italy. He came back to the land after the war.

He was mentioned in Despatches for his wartime service and received the Oak Leaf Award for his bravery in the Battle of Monte Cassino.

Leslie and his late wife, Eleanor, enjoyed 57 years of married life together and they spent many happy summer holidays with her family in Ipswich. Leslie has always been a gentle and resourceful man and he continued driving until earlier this year. Before moving into Southfield House, he tended a large vegetable plot, and lived independently. Leslie enjoys making bread and cakes.

He is now very happily settled at Southfield House and is enjoying the companionship there. He recently celebrated his 103rd birthday at the home.

Leslie is always cheerful and so very grateful for all his care he receives.

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