One of Wales' oldest men, who was told he had to wait six months for eye surgery, has been given a date for his operation - less than a week after making an appeal.

Alfred Finnegan, from Llanglydwen in Carmarthenshire, who celebrated his 106th birthday on Wednesday, needs a cataract operation to help restore his sight.

He can't read or even potter around the garden at the moment

Niece Kathy Page

Despite his age, West Wales General Hospital had refused to give him preferential treatment and had said he would have to wait his turn.

However, his niece Kathy Page said they had been contacted by Carmarthenshire NHS Trust to say the operation would go ahead on 3 October.

Mr Finnegan is a veteran of World War I, for which he won the French Legion d'honneur bravery medal.

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His family, anxious for him to enjoy his remaining years, are delighted the old soldier has won what may be his last campaign.

Ms Page said: "We are absolutely delighted, really pleased and my uncle is thrilled.

"Everyone has been so kind.

"He can't read or even potter around the garden at the moment.

"He lives at home with us and I have seen his sight gradually diminish over the years."

Two businessmen from Manchester had come forward separately and offered to pay for the operation privately.

Cataracts are common among over 65s and form when cells in the lens of the eye become cloudy.

It is one of the most common causes of blindness - although a simple operation can correct it.