World War II veteran gives cash

Dennis Fitch, 81, whose autobiography, entitled The Right To Live, is available from Shoreham Airport, presented the cheque to the home's matron, Jeanne Hudson, for the residents' well-being fund.

Mr Fitch told the Lancing Herald: "The well-being of the Sussex Downs residents has always interested me.

"I hope this initial small token will help them a little more towards their quality of life, by giving them the opportunity to have a few trips out and about."

Mr Fitch is at Shoreham Airport every day and said his book was selling well.

He added he wanted to say thank you to the organisations who have helped him throughout his life.

Born in 1921, Mr Fitch joined the RAF when he was just 19 years old.

He was struck down by illness while he was serving as a rear gunner and an air-field controller.

However, after a long battle, Mr Fitch began to rebuild his life with only a quarter use left of his lungs.