One of Liverpool FC's longest-lived supporters has shared the secret to a long and happy life as he is set to celebrate a very special birthday this month.
Charles Gallagher is an avid LFC fan, having followed every game and achievement for as long as he can remember, and proudly holds the title as one of the club's longest season ticket holders. Charles is set to celebrate his 100th birthday on May 20, 2022.
His top tip that he shared with the ECHO was his most important - don't worry about getting old as "age is just a number". He added that what also helps is "porridge in the morning with blueberries" and "dark chocolate before bed".
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Importantly, he encouraged people to take "one day at a time". Charles, who has lived in Liverpool city centre for the majority of his life, fought in the war for four years before returning to work on the buses.
As a huge LFC fan, the soon to be 100-year-old once chatted to the late Liverpool forward Ian St John about his journey with the team.
Granddaughter Claire Casswell told the ECHO: "He's followed every game and achievement. "He stopped going to matches a few years ago but we've been trying to get the possibility of getting him to a game.
"He watches them all the time, he's even got his own Liverpool top signed by everyone.
"He was at Hillsborough with my dad and brother. They never talk about that but he has been to many games and it is a massive passion in his life.
"His favourite memory is of Liverpool winning their first FA Cup against Leeds in 1965, when Bill Shankly was the manager. He's an avid supporter, just loves everything about them but equally is highly critical when they play badly."
Despite nearing 100, Charles is said to be incredibly independent and is "quite fit and healthy". Claire said he still lives at home and is "very much independent" and likes to "do his own washing".
Charles fell in love with his first love and soulmate Florence, who sadly died at the age of 82, but with three children, seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, he was surrounded by his loving family to help through the "heartbreaking grief".
Claire added: "He was heartbroken, I thought he wouldn't last long but he started computer classes and went to various church groups, he got even busier which really helped. A lot of people know him.
"As grandchildren, we all have so many memories with him, from holiday trips to coming to university with a box full of food for myself and brother."
Charles is set to celebrate his centenary surrounded by his family.
Reflecting on her grandfather, Claire said: "He's so kind. My nanny, his wife, suffered mental health problems at a later stage in life and he was just there and coped, always put her first and was genuine and caring. My daughters recently got good news regarding school achievements and he's the first on the phone to congratulate them, he seems so interested.
"He got married at 17 to my nanny and the day after he went to fight in the war. He regularly reminds us he left school at 14. He's my grandad but he is a genuinely good guy and knows everything that's going on."
