Women’s Land Army veteran celebrates 100th birthday

A North Devon woman has celebrated a remarkable milestone, marking her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends. 

Doris Haggett, originally from Filleigh, gathered with 28 loved ones for a celebratory luncheon at Owermoigne Village Hall in Dorset.

She celebrated her birthday on October 28. 

Doris, one of the few remaining veterans of the Women’s Land Army, dedicated her early career to essential agricultural work in Bere Alston, West Devon, during World War II, taking on roles left vacant by men who had gone to serve. 

Her efforts contributed significantly to the wartime food supply on the home front, embodying the resilience of her generation.

The celebration brought together family from across the UK, with some travelling from as far as Scotland and Clevedon. 

ABOVE: Doris celebrates with loved ones and showcases a letter from the King and Queen

Among the attendees were Doris’s niece and nephew, Penny and David Blower from Atherington, along with Laura Govier from South Molton and her daughter Jayne.

ABOVE: Celebrations in the village hall

In lieu of traditional gifts, Doris has chosen to support Alzheimer’s Research UK in honour of her milestone birthday, raising £510 so far for research into neurodegenerative diseases. Those wishing to contribute to her cause can donate through JustGiving at www.justgiving.com/page/d-haggett-100 or contact Alzheimer’s Research UK directly at 0300 111 5555.