A 101-year-old World War Two veteran from Wellington took part in The National Service during the 2025 Remembrance Sunday parade at The Cenotaph in Whitehall.

Ken Embleton travelled to the capital for Sunday, November 9, alongside his family and Nicky Perry, activities lead at Oaktree Court Care Home where he now resides.

At 101 years old Mr Embleton, who served from 1942 to 1946, led the front of the procession alongside fellow centenarian veterans.

Following the parade, he enjoyed some special seats alongside his companions at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, surrounded by dignitaries, families, and fellow servicemen and women.

During his time in the capital Mr Embleton was interviewed by BBC One and Sky News, where he shared his wartime experiences and spoke about how humbled and fortunate he feels.

Following his service in the British Armed Forces, which ended in 1946, Mr Embleton went on to join the Reserves until 1951.

He recalled how his life was saved by Operation Zipper - a British plan to capture Port Swettenham and Port Dickson in Malaya. Although the operation was scaled back following the end of the war in the Pacific, some of its landings still went ahead.

In recognition of his bravery while serving, Mr Embleton was awarded the Burma Star Medal after nine years of service.

This year marked his first national Remembrance Day service. He said he decided to attend the 2025 Cenotaph Parade because he felt he was “missing out on something in life”, adding that the experience proved to be deeply meaningful.

Alongside going to the National Service in London for Remembrance Sunday, Mr Embleton also participated in the Remembrance Day service in Wellington town centre on Tuesday, November 11.

Now living at Oaktree Court Care Home in Wellington, he continues to share his wartime stories with residents, team members, and visitors.

Mr Embleton remains deeply involved in the veteran community, regularly meeting with the local Royal British Legion and hosting a monthly Veterans’ Breakfast at Oaktree Court, where local veterans gather for food and conversation.

A spokesperson for Majesticare, who run Oaktree Court Care Home, said: “Ken truly represents the heart and spirit of Majesticare - kind, humble, and full of wisdom. His presence reminds us of the sacrifices made by so many, and the importance of sharing and preserving their stories.

“This Remembrance Day, as we reflect on the courage of all who served, we are incredibly proud of Ken, a WWII veteran, a true hero, and a cherished member of our Oaktree Court Care Home family.

“From all of us at Majesticare and Oaktree Court Care Home, thank you, Ken, for your service, your kindness, and your inspiration.”

Earlier this year, Oaktree Court Care Home held a celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, where Ken wore his medals with pride alongside new generations of veterans.

The Oaktree Court team dressed in outfits calling back to the 1940’s as they raised funds for veterans who have served around the world.