Party planned as Irene hits 102

Date published: 14 August 2009

IRENE Jones reaches another landmark on Sunday — her 102nd birthday.

The popular resident of Oakdene Nursing Home, in Stamford Road, Lees, puts her longevity down to hard work and a glass of Guinness, which she used to enjoy before going to bed.

The mother-of-two lived independently in Springhead until last Christmas when she suffered a bad fall.

Her daughter Kathleen Fox is a regular visitor to the home, along with her five grand-daughters and 12 great-grandchildren.

Her husband, Ted, died 40 years ago.

In her younger days, Irene worked at the former Glen Mill, Lees, before she went on to become a dinner lady at Springhead School.

Irene will be treated to a birthday party at the home with close family and friends.

Mrs Fox wished her mother a happy birthday, adding: “She has always been a good mum and all the children love her. We can’t believe she’s so old.”