FAMILY and friends gathered to celebrate a Dorchester man’s milestone birthday.

Bill Salisbury turned 90 last month and celebrated with a party at his family home with his wife Jean.

Before retiring, Mr Salisbury worked at the family farm in Longbredy, which was bought in 1913 by his grandfather and then farmed by Mr Salisbury’s father, Bert. Born in the house next to Longbredy village hall, Mr Salisbury attended Beaminster Boarding School and would cycle the journey between Beaminster and Longbredy twice at the weekend.

He left the school because of the Second World War but later returned to work on the farm and joined the Home Guard. In 1953 he married his wife Jean Baker, whose family farmed at Higher Kingston Farm, and had three children – Lyn, Carol and Ian. Mr Salisbury’s daughter Lyn Davey said he enjoyed opening many cards on his special day and there was lots of reminiscing and sharing of cricket stories, holidays and memories of the children and grandchildren growing up on the farm.

She said: “He is a much loved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and grandchildren came from Chichester and Plymouth to be a part of his special day. As a surprise, research was made dating back to Bill’s great-grandfather and then covered seven generations. Bill was presented with copies of the photos and genealogy and enjoyed going over family memories.”