EXCLUSIVE by Eloise Horsfield
A BRITISH expat has put his century-long life down to the Spanish sunshine and a few tots of brandy per day.
Harry Allen, who reached 100 this week – was delighted to receive a card from Buckingham Palace wishing him a happy birthday.
“He was absolutely thrilled to bits,” said son-in-law Rodney Harnett who looks after Harry with his wife Gloria, Harry’s daughter, at their home in Riviera del Sol, Mijas.
Harry was born on November 18 1912 and was one of seven brothers born in St Austell in Cornwall.
“He does the crossword every day and is a keen follower of football. He enjoys very much Spanish brandy and drinks a few tots a day, and has benefitted from the lovely weather here in Mijas Costa.
“He is marvellous,” added Rodney, pictured below with Harry and Gloria. “He is well known in the locality and much loved.”
Buckingham Palace had managed to get the card to Harry’s Spanish address by contacting his daughter-in-law in the UK, and the card arrived promptly two days before the big day.
“They’re very efficient,” said Rodney.
Statistics show that only 0.7% of those born in 1912 will live to 100, compared to 30% of those born this year.
Happy One Hundreth HArry!!! I shall start drinking a little of that Spanish Brandy of yours!!
Congratulations Harry, and Many happy returns!! I think I should try a little of that Brandy too….. Life in Spain obviously suits you well.
Happy Birthday Harry, you look great and look much much younger and I hope you have many more enjoyable years.