Navy veteran and volunteer John, 108, celebrates his birthday in Harrogate

Mr Shannon, who is believed to be the fifth oldest man in Britain, was born in the same year as the Battle of the Somme. He has lived through the reigns of five monarchs and has seen Governments led by 24 Prime Ministers.

He is a naval veteran and served during the Second World War – choosing that force as, in his words: “Because I can always be sure of a wash in the Navy”.

His family believe he is the last remaining veteran of the navy who served from the start of the war through to VJ Day in 1945.

After the war he moved into teacher training, eventually becoming School’s Officer at Margaret McMillan Training College in Bradford. He was also the Chairman of Assessors For Leeds University, and a member of the Board of Studies.

Now a resident at Hampden House in Harrogate, Mr Shannon has lived a life of service both to the nation and to his community.

From serving as a volunteer to the League of Nations in the 1920s, to continue to work as a befriender to lonely people in the past decade, his experiences have been vast and enriching.

Mr Shannon said: “My motivation to volunteer comes from the examples set by my parents and the fulfilment of serving others. It’s been a privilege to contribute to my community in meaningful ways.”

Children from local primary school, Brackenfield School, visited Hampden House to wish him a happy birthday.

Joanna Graczyk-Wozniak, social engagement lead at Hampden House, said: “John is an inspiration to everyone here – his positivity and spirit are infectious.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate this amazing milestone with him and recognise all the wonderful things he’s done for our community.”

His daughter Eileen Pearson said: ““His memory is so good. It is such a shame that his sight is d e teriorating as is his hearing, his conversational and debating abilities have not waned nor has his interest in current affairs.”