A former World War II Land Girl has celebrated her 99th birthday in style at a local care home.
Jean Bennett, who was born in Trowbridge in 1927, marked the milestone birthday with a special party at Mavern House Care Home, where she has lived since 2020. More than 30 family members and friends gathered to mark the special occasion.
During World War II, Jean joined the Women’s Land Army (WLA), becoming one of the thousands of women affectionately known as ‘Land Girls’ who stepped in to support the war effort by replacing male agricultural workers serving on the front line.
Despite the hardships of wartime Britain, Jean and her friends found moments of joy and escapism by attending dances with British and American servicemen. They would often dance long into the night before walking all the way home from Melksham to Trowbridge in the early hours because there was no public transport available.
Following Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) in August 1945, which marked the end of the war, Jean was crowned her local Victory Queen in recognition of the historic occasion.
Jean met her future husband, Ken Bennett, while he was home on leave from the Army. The couple married in July 1949 and went on to raise five children – four daughters and a son.
Jean worked in a variety of jobs before finding her calling working as an auxiliary nurse, a role she fulfilled for almost 20 years until her retirement.
Jean and Ken shared a passion for travel and exploring new places together. After Ken died in 1993, Jean continued her adventures independently, embracing opportunities to see the world and enjoy new experiences. At the age of 87, Jean embarked on a Strictly Come Dancing-themed cruise and, to celebrate her 90th birthday, fulfilled a lifelong dream by travelling aboard the world-famous Orient Express.
Today, Jean is the proud head of a large multi-generational family and delights in spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In 2020, following an infection, Jean underwent a partial leg amputation. However, the care home staff say the setback has done little to diminish her determination and positivity.
Mavern House home manager Rosie Haride said, “Jean is an inspiration to everyone who knows her. Her warmth, positivity and incredible life story are truly remarkable. It was wonderful to celebrate her 99th birthday with so many family members and friends and to see how loved and respected she is by everyone around her.”
Pictured below: Jean Bennett as Victory Queen
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