Bridge On River Kwai ‘Luckiest Man' Is 100

War vet who escaped firing squad marks milestone birthday

- Lucy Thornton

One of the last surviving Britons who worked on the Second World War’s infamous Death Railway has celebrated his 100th birthday.

Walter Stead, who was once described as “the luckiest man alive” after escaping a firing squad, worked on the bridge over the River Kwai as a prisoner of war.

Walter’s family joined him for the incredible milestone and 30 neighbours stood outside to sing happy birthday.

When asked the secret to Walter’s long life, his son Peter said: “He has always been very active. He has kept his mind very alert and he does love a sherry. He has just been fortunate.”