A retired Epsom engineer is looking forward to a £25,000 birthday present when he turns 100 today.

Alec Holden is getting the cheque for £25,000 after placing £100 at 250 to one odds with bookmakers William Hill that he would live to 100.

Spokesman Rupert Adams said the bet made almost a decade ago had really paid off.

"When we started taking these bets a hundred years old seemed to be an almost mythical landmark and we were prepared to offer massive odds," Mr Adams said.

"But these age wagers are starting to cost us a fortune and from now on we are going to push out the age to 110.

"I am sure that Alec will get more pleasure from our letter than he will from the Queen's."

Mr Holden said the secrets to his longevity were eating porridge every day and remembering to breathe.

He still plays chess every day and does crosswords at weekends to keep his mind active.

Mr Holden plans to celebrate his win by taking a group of friends to a hotel for a few days to relax and party.