A passionate Ipswich Town fan who spent seven decades married to the love of his life has celebrated his 100th birthday. 

Peter Smith, from Felixstowe, credits reaching the milestone birthday due to the 70 "wonderful years" he spent with his wife Doris and the happiness he found surrounded by his family. 

He added: "Be contented with what you have."

Peter Smith said being content with what you have and the many memories with his wife Doris was his secret to living to 100.Peter Smith said being content with what you have and the many memories with his wife Doris was his secret to living to 100. (Image: Avocet House)

The centenarian spent his early years and education in the coastal town and was the eldest brother to two sisters.

His love of sport was there from a young age and Mr Smith was a proud member of the Suffolk relay team and also excelled at playing centre forward in football.

He moved to Ipswich during the Second World War and began his service in the Royal Marines for four years.

He married his beloved Doris in August 1947 after their love blossomed while writing to each other during his service as pen pals. 

They became engaged after a year of correspondence and celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary, marking 70 years of marriage.

The couple raised two daughters and later welcomed their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

After his service, he worked at pharmaceutical company Fisons for 21 years.

He also worked as a caretaker at Suffolk College and he spent time at Churchman’s, the cigarette manufacturer, where he worked in the cutting shop.

The 100-year-old has many hobbies, over the course of his life he has bred chickens, tended to his garden, and had a passion for cooking.

Growing up by the beach instilled in him a lifelong love for the seaside, and he enjoyed traveling with Doris whenever he could.

The Avocet Court resident recently celebrated his big day with his family and friends and with an Ipswich Town birthday cake made by the home's care team.

He is also looking forward to seeing Ipswich Town back in the Premier League.