**Centenarian Owen Filer Celebrates 107th Birthday in Wales**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Owen-Filer138-10202026-b03acb6d563c4226b43182c87179d928.jpg)
Owen Filer, a resident of Cwmbran and widely regarded as the oldest living man in Wales, marked his remarkable 107th birthday on October 19. The World War II veteran enjoyed an early birthday celebration with loved ones, where he shared his experiences and reflections on a life spanning over a century.
Filer attributes his longevity to a combination of hard work, leading a disciplined life, and a particular fondness for fish and chips. During the celebration, he explained his dietary habits with a sense of pride, stating, “I’ve never overeaten… I lived on fish and chips.” He elaborated on his culinary preference, mentioning, “A full meal, a scoop full of chips and a fish,” noting that he fancied cod or hake.
Despite his impressive age, Filer remains modest about his achievements and longevity. “How I got here I’ll never know,” he remarked, adding that while many have questioned him about the secrets to his long life, he believes there is no specific formula. “No secret recipe,” he suggested. Instead, he emphasised a life of hard work and proper living, which he feels contributed to his advanced years.
Born in 1919, Filer’s early life was marked by financial struggles. He recalled a childhood where food and money were scarce, admitting that the concept of reaching old age was not something he or his family ever considered. His life took a significant turn when he enlisted in the Royal Welsh Fusiliers and later the Military Police during World War II. His service included a posting in India in 1945, coinciding with Japan’s surrender.
At his birthday celebrations, Filer received a commemorative shield from SSAFA, a charity dedicated to supporting members of the armed forces and their families. This honour recognised his contributions and sacrifices during the war, a poignant reminder of the legacy he has created throughout his life.
The festivities also included a special outing to the Market Hall Cinema in Brynmawr, where Filer was warmly welcomed with a red carpet. His choice for the film screening was the classic comedy *One Good Turn*, featuring the beloved actor Norman Wisdom, who holds a special place in Filer’s heart.
Accompanying him during the celebrations were family members, including his 80-year-old daughter, Anne Messore, and other relatives. Filer’s family tree boasts a rich legacy, comprising four children, ten grandchildren, and an impressive fifteen great-grandchildren.
Darren Foote, a fellow veteran who played a pivotal role in organising the birthday event, described Filer as a humble and genuine person. Foote noted that Filer seemed somewhat taken aback by the attention lavished upon him, stating, “He’s just a really nice, down-to-earth guy.”
Reflecting on Filer’s attitude towards life, Foote mentioned that the centenarian starts his day with purpose and intention. He observed, “He still gets up in the morning, puts on a clean shirt and tie, cleans his shoes, and approaches the day with purpose.”
Owen Filer’s journey through life, replete with experiences from a difficult childhood to significant wartime service, serves as an inspiration to many. His approach to living well, combined with a few simple pleasures like fish and chips, encapsulates a philosophy that could resonate with individuals of all ages. His remarkable milestone serves as a testament not just to his age but to the vibrant life he continues to lead, surrounded by family, friends, and a community that values his contributions.