A 99-YEAR-OLD war hero has broken a world record to become the oldest man to pass exams in ballroom and latin dancing.

Frederick Salter began regularly attending classes at Dance 2 Dawn, a dancing school in Eltham, after his wife Amy passed away 11 years ago.

He explained: “When I lost my wife my grandchildren said ‘you mustn’t stay indoors - you’re going down and down.’ “I found Dawn’s dance school and my first dance was the quick step. After that I’ve never looked back.”

A retired engineer, Mr Salter fought in the Second World War for the Scots Guards, achieving the rank of Corporal and ending the conflict in northern Italy.

Now, despite a recent stroke, Mr Salter has been awarded his Gold Bar after taking exams in ballroom and latin.

He has now received a certificate from the Guinness Book of World Records confirming his achievement, beating the former 94-year-old record holder.

He said: “People have told me ‘you’re a star now mate’.”

Mr Salter, who says he has 30 grandchildren, added: “I love everything about it - there are people of all ages doing it.

“I’ve been a fit man all my life but this keeps me in good shape. My doctor says its really good exercise for me.”

Dawn Armitage, who runs the dance school, said: “Everyone thinks he’s great. They call him granddad but he’s fit as a fiddle.”

To find out more about the school visit dance2dawn.com