A “wonderful” former Royal Marine from Powys who has travelled the world has celebrated his 100th birthday.

John Davies was joined by family, residents and employees for his milestone birthday on Boxing Day (Tuesday, December 26). He enjoyed a meal out with his family before returning to Trenewydd care home near Brecon for a cake and nibbles with his new-found friends, having only lived there for two months.

John was born on Porthamel Farm in Talgarth. He grew up on the farm until his teenage years when he moved into Brecon. He’s always had strong connections to Brecon as his father, Mervyn Thomas Davies, was town Mayor in the early 1950s.

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When he was 21, John joined the prestigious Royal Marines before receiving an ex-serviceman university grant. He enrolled in a degree course in Agriculture and Agricultural Chemistry in Aberystwyth and soon progressed to become a food technologist for two international companies.

John, who is a father-to-four and grandfather-to-three, was happily married to his late wife for 66 years. The ex-serviceman has since found happiness with his new partner, who visits him at the care home.

Speaking about his newfound romance, John said: “It’s just a shame we met in the autumn of our lives. I wish we could turn back the clock to have many more years together.”

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John, who is a keen gardener, isn’t sure what the secret is to a long and happy life. “If I did know, I certainly wouldn’t keep it a secret,” he added.

Service manager of the Shaw healthcare-operated home, Richard Shepherd, said: “John has been with us for two months already, so it was lovely to be able to give him the special day he deserves. He’s lived such an amazing life that has seen him travel the world.

“He’s a wonderful character and we all love to hear his stories.”

Trenewydd is located in the residential suburb of Llanfaes, near Brecon and provides care for up to 35 residents, including those with dementia.