A SOLDIER who survived the war after twice being wounded in action has celebrated his 101st birthday – but admits he misses a pint down the pub during the pandemic.

Great-great-grandfather Stephen O’Hagan Lynn celebrated his birthday at his home in Earls Colne.

Born in Scotland in 1919, he served as a lance corporal with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders in the Second World War.

The veteran escaped as the German army advanced on the British Expeditionary Force at Dunkirk in 1940 and then took part in the Normandy Landings four years later.

Mr O’Hagan Lynn moved to Earls Colne just after the war and worked at Hunts Yard.

He still lives close to the Grade II listed building.

He was also a teacher for many years, living in London, Halstead and Sudbury.

Four years ago, Mr O’Hagan Lynn was awarded the Legion of Honour – France’s highest award – for his part in the country’s liberation.

He is now one of the last living veterans of the Second World War.

He is supported by his children Peter, Tony and Joyce who visit daily, and is in regular contact with eldest son Michael, in Devon, and daughter Christine, in America.

Tony, 72, said: “He’s a bit philosophical about his age.

“He’s been thinking about the vaccine and he’s ready to have it.

“He’s just waiting to be told when he’s going to get it.

“He’s still got a good outlook on life, but I think this year has been difficult for everyone.

“He went through the Second World War and remembers that devastation.

“He’s a strong, church-going man and he can’t grasp how churches are closed in the pandemic.

“He says all through the war, churches were never shut.

“He just misses going out – even just for a pint of Guinness.

“He’s going blind but he still has a sharp mind and knows everything that’s going on around him.”

Mr O’Hagan Lynn was also set to lead the VE Day parade in Halstead before plans were cancelled due to Covid-19.

Despite this, he is keeping in high spirits and is totally independent.

Son Peter, 66, added: “He’s still all there intellectually.

“He had quite a pleasant birthday – despite the fact we weren’t able to go to the pub!”