FRIENDS gathered to celebrate the birthday of a much-loved Weymouth man.

Denis Williams, of Grosvenor Road, turned 75 on Saturday and a party was held at his home.

Mr Williams, a member of the Friends of Radipole Park and Gardens, was featured in the Echo earlier this month after his generous donation to the community orchard at Radipole Park.

Mr Williams, who suffers from a severe lung condition, said: “They have named it the Denis Williams Orchard in my memory which was a very nice gesture.

“We are hoping to involve local people and schools and churches as we felt it would be an investment for everybody.”

Mr Williams said he often held gatherings for friends at the community room of the block of flats where he lived.

He said: “I have a little get together every month here where we sit down and put the world to rights. I have to thank the folks at Emmanuel Church, Southill, for organising this celebration and for being so good to me over the years.

“It’s such a lovely church with so much to offer, not just hymns and prayers. Everyone is welcome, especially those with children. This is something really special.”

Mr Williams said he had a great time at the party. He said: “I had a lovely time, I had 22 cards, I’ve never had that amount before”

Mr Williams would like to thank everyone for coming and making the day so special.