CRICKETER George Markham is celebrating a special century.

He celebrated his 100th birthday on Tuesday with an open house at his home in Sutton-in-Craven.

Born in Haworth, George was a keen sportsman in his younger days, playing cricket for Haworth and Eastburn as well as football.

He worked for the Government for 47 years and received the Imperial Service Medal.

When he retired, he took up bowls, playing at Sutton Park.

A father of four children, he has ten grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren and is due to become a great, great grandfather next month.