70th birthday milestone for Leeds '˜gent' Vernon

Now Vernon, who has Down’s syndrome, has defied all expectations to celebrate his 70th birthday – a milestone that has even surprised doctors.

Vernon, described as an “absolute gent”, marked his special day with a Christmas-themed party, as it is his favourite time of year.

His cousin Keith Shuttleworth said: “We are very, very pleased. We are looking forward to Christmas 2016 when we can have another party.”

Originally from Pool-in-Wharfedale, Vernon was brought up as part of a close family and lived with his parents until they died.

Keith said: “Brenda, Vernon’s mother, used to say that if he lived to be 21, he had had a good life.

“When he was born in 1946, there were not the facilities that there are today.”