A BRADFORD centenarian learned to walk again and surprised students who celebrated his efforts.

James Armitage, 100, who lives at Wingfield Nursing Home in Bingley, has taken his first steps after not walking for two years due to ill health.

James has been living at the nursing home since October 2022 and one day decided that he wanted to re-learn how to walk.

James said: “I can’t explain how I stopped walking, but now that I’m walking again, I’m really enjoying it.”

He learned to walk again with the help of Karen Richardson, Senior Carer at the home, and Sue Sroka, Activities Manager.

James said: “She’s really helped me walk again, she’s always supporting and pushing me to keep on going.

“I couldn’t have done it without her.”

“I was really lonely before this, and I’ve made as many friends as before.

The nursing home has a partnership with a local school, Beckfoot Priesthorpe Primary School, in Bingley, as part of an inter-generation programme and residents were invited to attend the end-of-term assembly, on Thursday, March 30.

James walked into the assembly, supported by his Zimmer Frame and his friend Irena as children applauded his efforts.

He said: “By gum, it was as if I had known them for years, it brought tears to my eyes.

“I felt on top of the world.

“I wouldn’t say I’m a hero for learning to walk again, considering I worked in the mines during the war, but it was nice.”

James is getting stronger and stronger and when the weather picks up he hopes to go for a walk in the park and enjoy a beer.

Children from Beckfoot Preisthorpe Primary have been invited to celebrate, James’ 101st birthday with him in June.

He said: “I’m getting on a bit now, 100 and in three months I’ll be 101- those three months make a lot of difference.”