OLDHAM’S mayor Ginny Alexander said it with roses when she attended Harold Pitts' special 100th birthday celebration at the weekend.

And although the coronavirus pandemic prevented her from wearing her official chains to the party in Chadderton she helped ensure Harold enjoy his day by presenting him with rose plants.

She said: “Despite the social distancing it was a lovely atmosphere and after singing Happy Birthday to Harold we all had one of the delicious cupcakes made by one of his friends to form the number 100.

"We left Harold still greeting people and surrounded by lots of presents," the mayor added. "Thank you for inviting me to share this special day.”

Mr Pitts, one of seven children, was born in Harpurhey in 1920. He had a brother who lived to 97 and a sister who lived until 91 years old.

He spent World War Two in the Army in North Africa, Italy and Greece and on his return home he went into the building trade until he retired.

His daughters Margaret and Christine and his son, Anthony and his wife and their daughter, Harold’s granddaughter, Natalie, attended the celebration along with the Firwood and District Residents Associations (FADRA), friends and neighbours.

Chadderton Central Ward Councillors, Eddie Moores, Colin McClaren and Elaine Taylor also attended.