Tunbridge Wells Care Centre resident Raymond King enjoyed a very special 104th birthday recently by taking a spin in Bentley Flying Spur.

Raymond, who moved into the home in December 2021, is coincidentally the same age as the luxury car company. When asked how he would like to celebrate his birthday, car enthusiast Raymond said he would like to sit in a Bentley.

The home set about making his dream come true with the help of sales manager Sarah Ledden and sales associate Harry Sermbezi from Bentley Tunbridge Wells. Raymond sat in the car talking about its finer points with Bentley Tunbridge Wells’ driver Peter Constable, and then was taken for a spin before joining other residents and staff for a slap-up birthday tea at the home.

Born in November 1919, Raymond grew up in London and fought in the Army during the Second World War. When the conflict ended, he moved to Cranbrook and became a master baker at the family bakery where he worked for most of his long life.

Rachel Ticehurst-Richardson, the home’s head of activities, said: “Raymond loved his birthday treat. When he heard that the Bentley was worth £250,000, he joked that he ‘only had £50 on him and would that do?’ It was great to see him enjoying himself so much on his big day.”

Bentley Tunbridge Wells’ Sarah Ledden added: “It was an absolute pleasure to play a part in Raymond’s very special day. Clearly, 1919 was an exceptional year. Happy birthday Raymond, from all of us at Bentley Tunbridge Wells.”