A Dunkirk veteran is celebrating turning 100 surrounded by family from around the world.

Geordie Peter Stewart was born exactly 100 years ago on the Newcastle Quayside and has been celebrating his milestone birthday with a party at home.

Peter was the eldest of six children born to Catherine and Michael Stewart in the aftermath of the First World War.

He attended St Dominic's School in the city before war broke out again when he was aged just 20.

Joining up to fight with the Royal Engineers, Peter saw action in France and was part of the infamous Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.

He returned after his service to work on the shipyards and also helped to build the Tyne Tunnel.

His varied career also saw him work as a traffic warden in Newcastle city centre before he retired at 65.

Now a widower, Peter has been visited by his son Dennis, daughter Joan and grandson Daniel on his special day.

Daughter Joan, 71, said: "It's brilliant. I'm just glad he's got his health.

Dunkirk veteran Peter Stewart celebrates his 100th birthday

"The family have got together for the occasion.

"It has been emotional."

The centenarian lives with his younger sister Bernadette, 84, in Chapel House in Newcastle.

Bernadette returned from living in Australia to take care of Peter and her son, David, has made the round-the-world trip to join in with the birthday celebrations.

Although she is Peter's main carer and they live independently, their carers and neighbours also help out.

Peter's younger brother Michael Stewart says despite his advancing years, Peter is "as bright as a button".

The 83-year-old who lives in Whitley Bay said: "He's been looking forward to the party.

"He doesn't get out much now but he sometimes goes for his pension."

He added that Peter only talks "a little bit" about Dunkirk and his experiences during the war almost 80 years ago.

Peter has some trouble with his mobility and likes to relax at home reading the paper.

Dunkirk veteran Peter Stewart celebrates his 100th birthday

On Tuesday, family and neighbours arrived to toast Peter and to say congratulations on reaching his 100th year.

His telegram from the Queen and a birthday card from Parliament took pride of place in the sitting room as the birthday candles were lit.

Joan, from Walbottle, said: "He's been well looked after. I really think that.

"He's got a good sense of humour. He's more aware than me sometimes."

She added: "I hope we can have a party for his 101st.

"He takes everything in his stride."