A FORMER World War Two pilot from Prestwick - who was once the oldest student to study computing at an Ayrshire college - has recently celebrated his 105th birthday.
Harry Richardson is one of the few surviving WW2 Bomber Command pilots and he celebrated his 105th birthday with family on Wednesday, February 8.
Harry was born during the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918 and joined the RAF at the beginning of WW2.
He completed a tour of 30 missions over Europe before being sent to India, where he completed a further tour, after which he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his "acts of valour, courage, or devotion".
After the war, Harry and his wife Margaret and daughters Penny and Lynda, move to Prestwick, where to started a job as an Air Traffic Controller.
Aged 90, he and his second wife Marjorie, became the oldest Computer Studies students at Ayr College, where he became proficient in both PowerPoint Presentations and Photoshop.
After more than 70 years residing in Prestwick, Harry recently moved to stay with his eldest daughter in Ochiltree, East Ayrshire.
That hasn’t stopped him returning every Saturday evening, particularly to the local RAFA Club where he is in great demand on the dance floor.
Harry's daughter Lynda told the Advertiser that he enjoys his walks, which help keep him mobile and fit.
Harry received a letter from King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla for his special birthday.
The card reads: "My wife and I are so pleased to know that you are celebrating your one hundred and fifth birthday on February 8, 2023.
"This brings our warmest congratulations and heartfelt good wishes on such a special occasion."
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