Evergreen Freemason Freddie Cooke has reached 100.

Scoring a century - Freddie Cooke celebrates his birthday with Mark Killick, Crystal and Phil Murrell, Jessie Fowler, Brenda Murrell, and Caroline and Tia Hutchins. Picture: TERRY WEEDEN (44841-2)

The former builder and decorator celebrated with friends at his home in Clacton yesterday. Mr Cooke said he was "overjoyed" to receive his letter from the Queen.

Neighbour Brenda Murrell said: "He does his own shopping and looks after himself."

The centenarian was born in London and moved to Clacton in his early years. He never remarried after the death of his wife, Jane.

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Published Wednesday, September 14, 2005

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