ONE of Newport’s most recognisable figures is celebrating turning 100 today.

Ron Jones, of Bassaleg, Newport, is a veteran who has been collecting for The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal for more than 30 years.

Mr Jones was a prisoner of war in the Nazi death camp Auschwitz while serving in the 1st Battalion of the Welch Regiment during World War Two. 

He was captured in 1943 in the Middle East and after nine months in Italy was transferred to forced labour camp E715, part of the Auschwitz complex.

Mr Jones has been a familiar face in Newport during the build up to Remembrance Sunday selling poppies at Tesco on the Harlech Retail Park.  

The Auschwitz survivor has received numerous nominations for his work selling poppies for the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal. He was named winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award, but at an event in the Coldra Court Hotel he was named as winner of the Pride of Gwent Award.

He is celebrating his 100th birthday today with his family and had a small party thrown for him last night by Graig Community Council.

Lynne Woodyatt, community fundraiser for The Royal British Legion said: "Ron is one of our oldest poppy collectors and one that we hold in very high regard.  The Royal British Legion is something very close to his heart and we wish him our sincere congratulations on his milestone birthday. 

“His many friends at The Legion will be thinking of him at this time and hoping he has a wonderful day on Sunday celebrating with his family. He is a true hero and a gentleman.”

Ant Metcalfe, The Royal British Legion's manager for Wales said:  “On behalf of everyone at The Royal British Legion, I would like to thank Ron for his invaluable contribution to the Poppy Appeal over the years. 

“By sharing his incredible story of survival and resilience with the press and media Ron has touched so many people and left a lasting impression on many.

“His loyal and determined long service to the Poppy Appeal has given the public a compelling reason to donate to the charity and helped us to reach those people who may be in need of support in the future.” 

Mike Jones, Poppy Appeal organiser for Gwent, said: “Ron is a true ambassador, such a character and a real gentleman.  Not only is he one of our oldest collectors but one of our most popular. Happy Birthday Ron.”