ERIC White received an early 100th birthday treat when he was the toast of a community lunch at The Ridgeway School.

Over the last eight years, Eric has been a regular face at the school’s monthly come-dine-with-me events.

They host the lunchtime meals for elderly members of the community with the children acting as waiters and dessert makers.

Eric, who turns 100 on Sunday, received a huge cake on Wednesday, while the students and the 22 other dinners sang happy birthday.

Ann Sheppard, design and technology teacher, who helps organise the events, said: “He’s one of the gentlemen who has come to these meetings from the very start and he’s incredibly popular. He was so surprised, bless him, when we brought out the cake and I think it was a nice pre-birthday treat for him.”

Visitors were treated to a roast pork dinner.

“They eat in the dining room with the students serving the elderly people before going round the room to chat with them,” said Ann.

“We encourage the pupils to invite loved ones and elderly neighbours they know.

“We’d love to hear from anyone who’d like to come to future lunches.”

Call 01793 846100 or visit ridgewayschool.com.