THE 100th birthday of Britain's oldest practicing solicitor was celebrated in the Gazette 50 years ago.

John Stallard, of Redlands, Colwall, was three times mayor of Worcester and a important man in the city's life, with many achievements to his name.

"Until quite recently, Mr Stallard travelled several times each week from his home to his office in Pierpoint Street, Worcester, where he took an active part in business," the report said, adding he walked to Colwall station to commute to work in fine weather.

"Mr Stallard attributes his remarkable health to regular habits. I get up at six every morning and take plenty of exercise. Not many years ago, I climbed Snowdon twice in a week.' "He is a great believer in the health value of walking. When asked two years ago whether he thought of retiring, he replied, No, I don't like the idea of having nothing to do and, anyway, I have to go to the office to see that things are going along as they should'.

"Among Mr Stallard's interests is county cricket. He can recall the visits to Worcester of the famous W G Grace, wonderful bat and a wonderful bowler'."