An Irish man who turned 100 this week has celebrated his milestone birthday with a drive-by party attended by friends, family and neighbours.
Arthur Saunders was born on 20 November, 1920, in the middle of the Irish War of Independence, and has lived through some of the most momentous parts of Ireland’s history.
Now, he’s living through the global COVID-19 pandemic, with all the life-altering restrictions it brings – but his friends and family ensured the centenarian got to mark the occasion by organising a socially-distanced drive-by celebration.
Dozens of friends, family, and even the local police passed by to wish Mr Saunders well, and he took it all in his stride, sipping a pint of beer as he watched the community pass by his door.
One of his seven grandchildren, Julie Brady, said the turnout showed “that everyone realises how much of a legend my grandad is”.
‘Legend’ Arthur Sanders said that while he appreciated the drive-by party, he was looking forward to the pandemic coming to an end so that he can have a pint in his local, “have a bit of a jump around and pick up someone”.
And as for his secret to a long life, the 100-year-old advised: “Live your life and don’t hate anyone.”
“Get on with people and socialise – I don’t think I ever had a row or an argument with anyone in my life.”
