Rebecca was delighted to attend the 100th birthday celebration of local WWII hero, Mr Cyril Barrell.

One of the last veterans of the war locally, Mr. Barrell is the only surviving member of The 3rd Battalion Welsh Guards who fought in WW2 in The Italian Campaign, covering the Military Action of Monte Casino, Monte Piccolo and Monte Grande. This was one of the bloodiest conflicts of the war. 

Holder of the George VI War Medal 1939-45, 1939-45 Star and Italy Star, he organised Liaisons with British Rail and the German Bundes Bahn in Hanover during 1980s. 

Rebecca commented: “I was invited to a surprise birthday party for a very special man. It was lovely to celebrate it with him and his family and friends. Cyril is one of the last of the amazing generation who fought in the Second World War still living in Castle Point. He is still sharp as a button and has some truly amazing stories.

“Well done to his family and friends for throwing such a fantastic party. Happy Birthday Cyril.”

He lives in Daws Heath in Benfleet and has done so for the past 60+ years. Congratulations and Happy Birthday!