Art-loving Lutterworth woman who served in Second World War celebrates 100th birthday

A Second World War veteran, former teacher and art lover from Lutterworth has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Eileen Payne recently celebrated her 100th birthday with the help of her friends, family and caregivers from Rugby-based company Home Instead.

Eileen, who has two children, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, was born in Hinckley in 1921, where she lived in her childhood home.

When she was only a young woman, Eileen worked in the drawing office serving for the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service; the women's branch of the British Army during the Second World War.

After the war Eileen moved to Burbage, where she enjoyed a fantastic career working in her father’s surveyor’s office.

Her father was the town surveyor for Hinckley, and even designed the popular local Hollycroft Park.

Eileen, following her love for children, made a career change and began teaching at Burbage Junior School.

Her maternal instinct saw her continuing to work with children later in life as a nanny.

Aside from her varied working life, Eileen also has a creative flair.

She loves to spend her time painting, creating beautiful watercolours and oil landscapes, having even sold some of her pieces professionally.

She's also been a keen potter, who had her own kiln at one point.

Sarah Slater, owner of Home Instead Rugby, said: “Eileen is an inspiration; she is very independent, has a wonderful outlook on life and is so very grateful for her long life.

"I am delighted we can continue to support Eileen in the same community she has known for so many years.

“It was so special to be able to gift Eileen on her 100th birthday with flowers and a card. We were delighted to help mark this momentous occasion for a lovely lady.”

To find out more about the work that Home Instead Rugby do in your area, or for details of current caregiver vacancies, please call 01455247100 or visit: www.homeinstead.co.uk/rugby