Charles tees off for his 100th

Britain's oldest golfer was today due to celebrate his 100th birthday by teeing off at his local Shropshire golf course.

Charles Viner, from Priorslee, Telford, has been playing for more than 80 years and is still a regular at The Shropshire Golf Centre in Muxton.

His plans for today were to tee off at the first hole before enjoying a champagne lunch at the club with his closest family and friends.

Mr Viner, whose birthday was on Sunday, used to teach art at Wolverhampton Grammar School and started playing golf in 1926.

In 1975 he achieved a coveted hole-in-one and in his prime cultivated a very credible handicap of 10.

These days he still plays about three times a month and claims to be the oldest regular golfer in Britain.

Mr Viner credited his longevity to the sport after being made the centre's first honorary member five years ago. "It is the best exercise you can get," he said.

He is accompanied around the course, where he has been a regular since 1998, by his son John who transports Mr Viner's clubs in an electric trolley.

James Lever, general manager at the golf centre, said: "It is an incredible achievement that Charles is still enjoying his golf with us as he reaches this landmark birthday.

"He plays to keep fit and for pleasure, and always stays to enjoy a glass of red wine and a friendly chat afterwards.

"We are proud of all our senior members who continue to play into their advancing years."