WWI hero home for 108th birthday

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One of the five surviving British veterans of World War I has returned home in time for his 108th birthday after spending time in hospital.

William Stone, who served in the Royal Navy, was taken ill at his residential home in Wokingham, Berkshire, on 6 September.

He was discharged last week and will celebrate his birthday with friends and family on Tuesday.

Mr Stone joined the Navy on his birthday in 1918 and served until 1945.

Both wars

A Royal Berkshire Hospital spokeswoman said Mr Stone was sent home earlier than expected last Wednesday night.

He added: "He's been doing really well and talking to the world.

"He is a really nice man and all at the hospital wish him the best for the future."

He is one of only two ex-serviceman still living in Britain to have served in both world wars.

He spoke to the BBC of his strongest memories of World War II and the Battle of Dunkirk ahead of last year's Remembrance Sunday.

"One of our ships, Skipjack, was bombed and she just disappeared.

"Two hundred soldiers and all the crew were killed," he said.

Mr Stone was presented with the National Veterans' Badge in 2004, for his service to the UK.