Worksop great-great grandmother marks her 100th birthday

Lena Bainbridge was due to celebrate her 100th birthday with family, friends and a surprise performance from the Salvation Army brass band earlier this month.

Sadly she was taken into hospital just hours before the planned party, but her family ensured she still marked the occasion.

Lena got to spend her birthday with her granddaughter Louise Shaw, who was at work in Bassetlaw Hospital, and Lena’s three daughters also visited her.

Lena was born on December 6, 1921 at the family home in Hodthorpe, and was the second eldest with six brothers.

By the age of 14 she started work on a farm and later moved to Meadow Dairy which used to be in Newcastle Avenue, in Worksop.

Lena had a love of dancing and spent many nights at the Pally Dance Hall in Worksop, and in 1940 this is where she met the love of her life Reginald Bainbridge.

In 1940 Reg, was called up to serve in the World War Two. During this time Lena worked at the ammunition factory in Ranskill.

The couple enjoyed many hobbies, including dancing, gardening, and attending the Bassetlaw Centre over 50s club.

Lena also worked in the WRVS shop before retiring aged 84.

Granddaughter Louise said: “Lena was not really well enough to celebrate but just singing her happy birthday, and talking with us all was enough.

"She is a special lady who is greatly loved by all of her family.”