Eddie Williams with Rosemary Conley and neighbours Vicky Stollery and Adele Page

His garden in the Heath area of Cardiff is a safe haven for them and they flock there to enjoy the swings and the parties he organises.

Now Mr Williams, who is 100 on 15 December, has been named this year's Neighbour from Heaven, an annual award organised by charity Care for the Family.

He was nominated by two of the delighted parents of the local children who call him "Uncle Eddie."

Mr Williams received his award as Britain's top neighbour from best-selling diet and fitness author and broadcaster, Rosemary Conley and was presented with a cheque for �500 for his chosen charity.

The genial joiner, who still spends three days a week at his workbench, topped seven Neighbour from Heaven finalists from across the UK, who had been chosen because of the positive difference they had made in the lives of people who live around them.

He was nominated by neighbours Vicky Stollery and Adele Page for providing a safe place for the children in his neighbourhood to play for many years.

Most of all he has taught us to enjoy childhood." Neighbour Vicky Stollery

As well as organising numerous parties, he also turned his garage door into a blackboard and has made endless things for the children to enjoy, such as swings and stilts.

"Uncle Eddie, as we know him, has a unique way of relating to children of all ages. Nothing is too much trouble for him." said Vicky Stollery.

"He has taught us how important it is to look out for each other and to respect people, but most of all he has taught us to enjoy childhood."

Mr Williams has three of his four children still surviving, and they've given him six grand-children.

He added: "I've also got three great-grandchildren and another on the way. I love children...they keep me young."

One of the competition organisers, Des Holland said, " We chose Edward because he has shown care and friendship in a very practical way.