But in recent years, the only goal the Werringtonite has set himself has been to reach his 100th birthday and get his telegram from the Queen – which he achieved on Tuesday.

Mr Richardson was born in York and joined the Royal Horse Artillery in 1928, where he worked his way up to the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major.

Although reluctant to talk about the war, he was evacuated from Dunkirk, where his family believe he was one of the last men to escape.

He also served in India and had a passion for horse riding.

After the war, Mr Richardson set up home in Amberley Slope, Werrington, Peterborough, where he has lived for more than 46 years.

He became an electrician for Newall Machine Tools in Shrewsbury Avenue, Woodston, where he worked until he retired at 65.

He married his wife of 64 years Mary, in Boston, and went on to have twin daughters Christine and Valerie and a son, Christopher. He also has eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

To celebrate Mr Richardson's 100 years, a family get-together was arranged at the weekend, with relatives coming from all over the country to shower him with cake, balloons and congratulations. He is also looking forward to a second party with neighbours and friends this week.

Mr Richardson's daughter-in-law, Karen, said: "Harry always said he would live to see 100 just so he would get the customary congratulations from the Queen."

Mr Richardson's son, Chris (50), said: "He never wanted a lot out of life but always said he would live to be 100.

"I am honoured and lucky to still have him around and I wouldn't bet against him seeing out another 10 years."