Philip Jackson from Keighley marks his 100th birthday after service in World War II and dedication to local history.
Philip landed in France after D-Day. He drove big transport trucks initially, and helped liberate Cherbourg. Later, he drove British generals into Germany and even drove a wagon into Bergen-Belsen camp after its liberation.
Philip Jackson was born in Keighley and was one of five children. He worked at a foundry before the war. After the war, he briefly returned to the foundry, then worked in mills and became a manager.
He worked for 30 years at mills in Silsden, Keighley, and Saltaire. Finally, he managed Scott’s Mill in Bradford. Philip met Hilda before joining the army, and they got married in 1947.
Philip and Hilda had one son, Philip. Sadly, Hilda passed away in 1992. For 30 years, Philip researched local history, documenting cemetery inscriptions around Keighley. Also, he recorded births, deaths, and marriages at Keighley Catholic churches.
He compiled his research into books, and now, Keighley library stores his work. Family and friends celebrated Philip’s birthday at the library. His family said he is a pillar of strength, and someone described him as shaping their lives.
His nephew, Kevin Bell, is an artist. Kevin said reaching 100 is rare, but thinks Philip’s kindness is even rarer. His legacy is the impact he has had, and people shared their stories and memories.
Philip said he feels very lucky and that his secret to long life is simple: he just takes each day as it comes. At the library’s anniversary last year, Philip cut the cake, thus being honored for his long volunteer service.