Jet setter James's 100th birthday plans grounded by coronavirus lockdown
Centenarian James Lindsay’s holiday plans have had to be grounded because of the lockdown restrictions – but he is still set to celebrate his birthday in style.
Jetsetter James, a resident of Stichell House care home in Greatham, had been due to fly out to Spain by private jet to be with his daughter shortly after his big day on Friday, May 1.
Coronavirus has prevented that, but the home will throw him a party including a singer, lots of surprises, and daughter Verity Waddell will speak to him over the internet.
Despite his age, James, who lived and worked in Sunderland for several years, continues to enjoy holidays in Spain with Verity who has an apartment on the Costa Blanca.
She said: “I am sure he will get a lot of cards and there is also one coming from the Queen and I know the staff and other residents will make a big fuss of him on his special day.
''I am praying that the restrictions will be lifted soon enough for him to come to Spain with me in a private jet this summer, he would so love that.''
In the war James joined the new Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and spent a lot of time in Malta and in Italy.
While in the Army, he met his future wife Hilary who was working at a fire station in Stockton.
After the war they married and lived in Sunderland. Both were motorbike enthusiasts and when children Verity and Raymond came along the whole family travelled to TT races on the Isle of Man and races near Scarborough.
James worked at Bristol Siddley Aircraft Engines manufacturer in Sunderland, which later became Rolls Royce where his highlight was working on Concorde engines.
At 55 he took early retirement and bought a house with shop and Post Office in a village near Thirsk.
He and Hilary stayed in the area for over 30 years before settling in Greatham.
Hilary passed away in late 2018. James continues to enjoy holidays in Spain with Verity who said: “He loves the small town, the sea, the atmosphere and is so popular with friends, restaurant owners, people are always asking after him.”