A former soldier who participated in the D-Day invasions has marked his 101st birthday.

Mel Hughes, from Monmouthshire, welcomed Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes to his celebration, where she spent time with Mr Hughes and his relatives to honour the milestone and discuss his experiences.

Ms Fookes commented on the privilege of visiting Mel and his family to mark his 101st birthday, noting that Mel enlisted at just 18 and has devoted himself to his community ever since. She described him as an extraordinary man with a remarkable history, expressing that it was genuinely special to sit with him over tea and learn more about his journey.

Mr Hughes, a resident of Abergavenny, joined the armed forces when he was 18 and spent four years stationed in France and Germany, which included the D-Day operations.

Following the conflict, he maintained his commitment to local causes, assisting the Royal British Legion and collecting thousands of pounds for charitable organisations through the Loyal Order of Moose group.

He also worked as an usher at the community theatre until well into his late 90s.

Ms Fookes gifted him a box of chocolates bearing the Prime Minister’s signature.