On 20 July 2024, Dr Rev Bernard Holt celebrated his 100th birthday at Lark Hill Retirement Village with a party alongside his daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren, family and friends.
Dr Rev Bernard Holt was born on July 20 1924 in Gaythorne Street, Salford, Lancashire.
After school in 1940, Bernard wanted to join the Navy, however he failed the eye test so proceeded to become a design engineer in the drawing office. After finishing this apprenticeship he was enlisted into the royal engineers in the army becoming an officer, because of his war service he was entitled to further education and training.
Wanting to follow in his father’s footsteps, Bernard became a minister in the congregational church studying at Edinburgh University English, Divinity and Theology, MA. BD. Ordained in the United Reformed Church.
He worked as a minister for three years, then took a post graduate certificate in education. He became a grammar school teacher, eventually becoming a head master in Leicester, retiring in 1991 aged 65.
Bernard has three daughters with his first wife Sheila, whom he was married to for 41 years. Following her death, he married again to Joan for 21 years. Bernard moved to Nottingham following Joan’s death to be nearer to his family.
He can be seen here (left) with his card from the King and a cap which says “Not everyone looks this good at 100”