Family celebration: Lydia (centre) was joined at her party by a host of family and friends including her five children, 12 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren
Great grandmother Lydia Georgina Bennett celebrated her landmark 100th birthday with 1940s’ singing duo, The Land Girls.
Lydia, a resident at Colten Care’s Fernhill care home in Longham, was joined at her party by a host of loved ones including her five children, 12 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Along with a buffet and stunning celebration cake, entertainment was provided by The Land Girls, who had Lydia tapping her feet to a medley of wartime favourites.
Born in Bournemouth in 1916, as a twin with her late brother Ted, Lydia (nee Whitbread) was one of six children.
After leaving school she became a children’s nanny and had a narrow escape when a German bomb fell near to where she was working in Bournemouth.
Her daughter Carole Fisher-White, explained: “Mum worked for a family in Richmond Hill and every day would take their baby out in its pram.
“Her father, Henry Whitbread, owned a cycle shop in Stafford Road, Bournemouth, and as soon as he heard that a bomb had fallen near to where she was working, he jumped on his bike and pedalled over there to make sure she was alright.
“Thankfully she was right as rain and has gone on to have a very long and happy life.”
After marrying plasterer Phillip Bennett from Poole, Lydia went on to have five children: Yvonne, David, Robert, Carole and Jill.
A good cook and keen dancer, Lydia would attend regular functions with Phillip at the Talbot Rise Club in Ensbury Park.
She also loved making Easter bonnets and has won many prizes for her creations over the years.
Asked for the secret of her mum’s long life, Carole said: “I think her many grandchildren and great grandchildren have helped to keep mum young.
“She has always been happiest when surrounded by people and by the look on her face I can see she has really enjoyed her 100th birthday party.”
Gina Smith, Home Manager at Fernhill care home, said: “We were thrilled to help Lydia’s family organise her 100th birthday party.
“Lydia is a very special lady and much-loved, and a jolly good time was had by all.”
