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Coronavirus Kent: Herne Bay street sings Happy Birthday to grandad during lockdown

08:49, 15 April 2020

updated: 11:50, 15 April 2020

Kind-hearted neighbours stood outside their homes to sing a surprise rendition of Happy Birthday to a grandad during lockdown.

Peter Budge, from Reculver Court in Herne Bay, thought he would celebrate turning 60 with wife Debbie on Monday, April 6.

Reculver Court singing to Peter Budge

But unbeknownst to him, his thoughtful partner asked the residents along their street to sing and applaud for his milestone birthday.

Adhering to social-distancing rules, the close-knit community gave Peter the fanfare he deserved.

He said: “I couldn’t believe it when I saw my wonderful neighbours singing.

“After social distancing restrictions came into place, I didn’t think that I would be able to celebrate my birthday in style.

“But thanks to my wonderful wife and our friends at Reculver Court, I was left with a moment I will never forget.”

Peter Budge says the surprise "made my birthday"
Peter Budge says the surprise "made my birthday"

A video of the heart-warming event shows Peter smiling, waving and raising a glass to his neighbours as they sang to him and cheered hip hip hooray.

He completed his birthday celebrations by video calling his children and grandchild.

Following the outbreak of coronavirus, Peter was forced to cancel a joint party that was due to take place a few days beforehand at the King Ethelbert pub in Reculver.

He added: “Due to the current situation things are hard for all, and to see that when I came around the corner made my birthday.”

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