**A Century of Sweetness: Second World War Veteran Credits Daily Custard for His Remarkable Longevity**
Leslie Lemon, a great-great-grandfather from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, has just celebrated a milestone birthday that few can imagine reaching – his 106th. While many attribute such an extraordinary lifespan to exercise or genetics, Mr Lemon is steadfast in his belief that the secret lies in a far sweeter pursuit: a daily helping of custard.
Born on July 1, 1919, Mr Lemon’s life story spans global upheaval, wartime heroism, and extraordinary social changes. Yet, he maintains that the humble British custard, particularly when paired with rhubarb from the garden, has played a crucial role in his enduring vitality. “The secret to a long life is custard. Rhubarb from the garden and custard,” he confided, reflecting with a twinkle on his well-established routine.
This passion for pudding is more than a nostalgic indulgence; it’s a daily ritual. “I eat it every day. I prefer it cold. It’s nice in a trifle. You can’t beat it,” Mr Lemon said. He takes his custard seriously, favouring the classic Bird’s brand, but also keeping tins of Ambrosia’s ready-made variety in his pantry for moments that demand convenience. This readiness ensures that he never goes without his favourite treat, regardless of circumstance – a testament to his organised approach to life even at such an advanced age.
Mr Lemon’s longevity is matched by a remarkable history of service. After working as an office boy for what is now HM Revenue & Customs until his retirement at 60, he served as a corporal during the Second World War, an experience marked by both courage and recognition. Notably, five years ago, he was awarded the Légion d’honneur – France’s highest honour – for his wartime contributions.
Despite all he has seen and experienced, Mr Lemon insists he doesn’t feel the years. “I don’t feel older at all,” he remarked. In an era where age often brings a litany of health complaints, he stands out for his robust health and steadfast independence. “I’ve got no aches and pains. I don’t take any tablets or medications. I never see a doctor,” he stated with pride. His family, which includes eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, regularly gather to celebrate his milestones and learn from his contented approach to life.
Though custard is his undisputed favourite, Mr Lemon maintains a soft spot for Britain’s beloved takeaway tradition, saying fish and chips comes a close second to his daily dessert. But the former corporal is careful to note the importance of balance: “Everything in moderation,” he advises, suggesting a sensible approach that has likely played a role in his extended health.
Family has always been central to Mr Lemon’s life. He married his late wife, Doreen, in 1944, and together they raised three children, though their daughter Mary tragically died young from hepatitis. These losses have only deepened his appreciation for the simpler joys and rituals that anchor daily life, such as sharing a delicious pudding with loved ones.
His unique devotion to custard has not gone unrecognised – for his 100th birthday, Mr Lemon was presented with a custom Bird’s custard jug and received a congratulatory card from the late Queen Elizabeth II. More recently, messages from King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived to mark his 105th and 106th birthdays, proudly displayed on his mantelpiece as cherished honours. The custard-loving centenarian’s fame has even inspired supermarket giant Asda to award him a year’s supply of his signature treat, with the family joking that he may well store the lot under his bed.
Over the past century, Mr Lemon has witnessed dramatic shifts in technology and society. Asked about the biggest change in his lifetime, he pointed to the rise of video calls with characteristic candour: “I can’t work it myself. I’m a bit old fashioned.” Yet, his enduring joy and curiosity continue to inspire, proving that steadfast habits, a loving family, and simple pleasures offer a recipe for an extraordinary life.
As the Lemon family toasts another remarkable year, Mr Lemon’s story reminds us that happiness and longevity can, indeed, be found in daily moments of sweetness – perhaps even served cold, with a side of rhubarb.