Henry Allingham was given vintage birthday presents by staff

Henry Allingham was given a tour of Yesterday's World museum in Battle, East Sussex, and presented with some vintage gifts.

He said: "I've had a lovely day. I never imagined I'd see all these things, what a surprise."

Mr Allingham turns 111 on 6 June and is the only surviving veteran of the Battle of Jutland in 1916.

He was shown the museum's new displays which recreate scenes including Edwardian Britain, sweet shops and the Royal Exhibition.

'Remarkable achievement'

Staff presented him with a genuine packet of 'Wild Woodbine' cigarettes, a ration book, replica war-time memorabilia cards, and traditionally made sweets.

Museum manager, Clive Pardey, said: "We are delighted to have had the opportunity to meet Henry - a 111th birthday is a truly remarkable achievement.

"There should be an item to mark almost every decade of Henry's life, so it's great to reminisce about those years with him."

The attraction, which has British artefacts from the 1850s to the 1970s, has recently undergone a £3m refurbishment.