A D-Day veteran celebrated a milestone birthday in style at a parade attended by the newly appointed Royal Marine Regimental Sergeant Major Tim Jukes (CRSM).

Former Royal Marine Ron Baker marked his 100th birthday, celebrated by many as they gave praise to his achievements and bravery.

Veterans from the Maldon & Heybridge Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club, along with Sea and Marine Cadets, paraded from Toll House, Fullbridge down to Bath Place Wharf to pay tribute to the D-Day veteran of Sword Beach.

Together - Members of Maldon and Heybridge Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club stand proudly behind Ron BakerTogether - Members of Maldon and Heybridge Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club stand proudly behind Ron Baker (Image: Maldon District Council)

CRSM Tim Jukes accompanied Ron when he inspected the troops, as well as presenting Ron with birthday cards and letter from the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Benjamin John Key, KCB, CBE, ADC, and Commandant General, General Gwyn Jenkins CB OBE ADC.

More than 150 cards were received from well-wishers and presented whilst the troops sung “Happy Birthday” to Ron.

Ron was also presented with a Certificate of Long Service to the Poppy Appeal by Malcolm Taylor, County Chairman, Royal British Legion.

The finale of the event was a birthday cake presentation by the youngest Sea Cadet on parade before Ron left for a birthday luncheon at his nearby favourite restaurant, House of Delight in Maldon High Street.