War hero Ron Tomlin celebrates 100th birthday with RAF flyover

The flyover paid homage to Ron Tomlin's years of service as a sergeant bomb-aimer in 10 Squadron RAF during World War Two.

Family and friends gathered to watch the plane fly over the party twice, with the aircraft dipping its wing for Mr Tomlin.

Ron and his son Mike looking out for the plane. (Image: NQ)

"I was quite impressed because of the size of the aeroplane and the fact that a force like that can do that on behalf of someone like me," he said.

"It was a nice little surprise and a better flight than anticipated."

Ron Tomlin, who now lives in Droitwich, was just 19 when he signed up to fight in World War Two.

On his fourth flyover to Germany, he experienced engine issues and crashed in the English Channel and, after 17 gruelling hours in the sea, he was captured by the Germans and sent to a prisoner-of-war camp.

'PROUD': Ron with his two sons, David and Mike. (Image: NQ)

He said he is incredibly fortunate for the years he has had.

"The simple answer is I am no different than I was yesterday, I am no different than I was last week, and I am different from a year ago, but that is because things have happened.

"I am pretty fortunate in the years I have got, and you could say I am a healthy old man, but I would much rather be younger."

Worcester and Districts Royal Air Force Association: John (left) along with Ron. (Image: NQ)

Mr Tomlin has spent many good years with wife Freda, who died at Christmas, his two sons David and Mike and his many grandchildren.

His son, David, said: "I am very proud of him, very proud of my father.

"We all hope to get to 100, and we had 70th, 80th and now the 100th birthday party, and maybe the next one is 105.

The RAF plane coming around for a second time. (Image: NQ)

"He can still smile and enjoy himself."

The flyover was organised by John Mason, president and voluntary welfare officer of the Worcester and Districts Royal Air Force Association.

His role involves looking after anyone from the RAF, from any rank at any age, to be there in their time of need and make friendships with those who may be lonely.

"To think of the stress those boys, who were not even old enough to vote back then but old enough to lose their lives," Mr Mason said.

"I really admire Ron."