Hermitage man celebrates 93rd birthday and 85 years in Chieveley church choir

A West Berkshire man has been celebrating a double anniversary this month.

William Martin, or Bill as he is known, celebrated his 93rd birthday on August 20.

Mr Martin, who was born in Chieveley, now lives in Hermitage with his wife, Jill.

As well as enjoying his birthday this month, Mr Martin is also celebrating and reflecting on 85 years of involvement with Chieveley St Mary's Church choir.

A singer in the bass section, he still attends Sunday services and weddings and funerals when required and has performed interdenominational local ‘tours’ in the past.

Mr Martin also enjoys gardening and watching Chieveley Cricket Club matches, where he served as a captain in the 1950s and now as the club’s first vice president.

He also authored a book entitled, Chieveley: Remembered, in 2006, documenting the rich history of the village from its farms and public houses to its influx of evacuees during the Second World War.

Happy birthday Bill.