A 95-YEAR-OLD war veteran was the guest of honour at a reunion for retired RAF musicians.

Leslie Smith learned to play the drums as a young man and formed his own band in 1938.

When the Second World War broke out, he enlisted in the RAF and rose to the rank of leading aircraftman, while also performing as a bandsman.

Mr Smith was invited to the annual reunion of retired RAF musicians held at RAF Cranwell in Surrey.

The Bromley branch of the Soldiers', Sailors', Airmen and Families' Association organised for a car to take him to the event.

Mr Smith, of Edward Road, Bromley, shared lunch with old comrades and was asked to take the salute as the bands marched by.

He said: "I must admit I did get a bit emotional at that point but it was a proud moment and I'm very glad I was able to get there."

Mr Smith, who has been married to his wife Peggy since 1950, worked as a professional musician when he left the RAF.