A life of caring celebrated as Frances enjoys her 104th Birthday

Home news

Apr 25, 2013

Friends and family joined with the team at Care UK’s Ventress Hall recently to celebrate the 104^th birthday of Miss Frances Raine.

Miss Raine, who was born in Coundon, County Durham, left the family home above their butcher shop at 18 to become a nurse. She dedicated the next 40 years of her life to caring for her patients in hospitals in Darlington and Middlesbrough, Ashford, London and Birmingham.  Miss Raine also worked at Queen Alexanders Nursing in the nursing core of the British Army and served in Egypt and Palestine. 
She went on to be a matron at Omagh County Hospital, in Northern Ireland, for 22 years before her retirement, aged 58, when she returned to the north east to look after her mother.
Miss Raine said her fondest memories include being invited to tea with the Queen Mother at Buckingham Palace and trips out with her church in Newfield and Byers Green.

Speaking after a party to celebrate her birthday, Miss Raine said: “I had a wonderful time with my friends and family. I don’t usually like being the centre of attention but I really enjoyed my special day.”

Her nephew, the Reverend Brian Holmes said: “Her family are immensely proud of her and her achievements, I know of nothing that has ever got the better of her, she is a wonderful lady.  Her motto is “You’re never too busy …… and you’re never too tired”.

Home Manager Judy Wray said: “Frances is such a lovely lady and the team and her fellow residents were delighted to be a part of her special day.
“The kitchen team made a wonderful 104 cake and we filled the home with balloons, flowers and music.”