A YATE war veteran has celebrated their 99th birthday. 

Churchill Retirement Living hosted a heartwarming birthday celebration in honour of Leonard Trewin, a remarkable war veteran and a true champion of the community at Trewin Lodge.

Leonard and his family members – including three great-grandchildren – attended the event on August 23rd, and celebrated Leonard turning 99 with Trewin Lodge apartment owners and Churchill colleagues.

Gazette Series: Yate war hero Leonard Trewin celebrates 99th birthday with family

Instead of a birthday gift, Leonard asked Churchill to make a donation to the Parachute Regiment Association’s ‘Support our Paras’ charity (PRA).

Leonard Trewin, a war veteran from Yate, has an amazing legacy that includes his heroic contribution in the Normandy Landings during World War II.

Recognised for his exceptional bravery and dedication, Leonard was awarded with the Legion d'Honneur by the French government in 2019 for his role in the liberation of France.

Churchill Retirement Living proudly named their development on Normandy Drive, Trewin Lodge, as a tribute to this local hero.

Whilst he is not residing here, Leonard has formed a deep bond with the residents and the Churchill team.

In lieu of traditional birthday gifts, Leonard expressed his wish to make a contribution to the PRA which was formed at the end of the Second World War so members could continue associations formed during their service with the Regiment and Airborne Forces.

To facilitate this gesture, Churchill donated £100 to this charity through its Churchill Foundation.

Caroline Haswell, senior marketing manager at Churchill Retirement Living South West said: "We were delighted to join Leonard and his family in celebrating his 99th birthday and his incredible journey.

"His remarkable story of bravery and deep ties to the community have left a lasting mark on us all, and we are honoured to make this donation to the PRA in his name.”

Trewin Lodge is a collection of 65 one and two bedroom retirement apartments located in a residential location just 11 miles from the centre of Bristol.

For more information about Trewin Lodge, visit www.churchillretirement.co.uk or call 01454 83768.