LIFELONG Darlington resident Elsie Bainbridge will celebrate her 100th birthday tomorrow (Friday March 21), more than five years after being left for dead by a hit and run driver.
In 2007, Mrs Bainbridge – then 94 -was left with serious injuries when teenager Derek Patrick Matthew Stephenson fell asleep at the wheel of a pick-up truck and smashed into a Darlington bus shelter.
Despite being left almost immobile by the traumatic incident, Mrs Bainbridge continues to live independently and plays an active role in the community, as she always has.
The devoted mother-of-four was a Girl Guide Captain for more than 40 years and still maintains links with the group. She teaches quilting to local women and regularly helps out with church-related activities. Until the accident, she also helped to prepare meals for the elderly.
She credits her long life with contentment. She said: “I am content with the way my life has been laid out for me. I have never wanted for anything and have enjoyed a quiet life.”
“If I could give any advice to anyone, it would be to always be yourself. Never try to be anyone else because you will you will get found out.”
Unphased by the imminent arrival of a telegram from the Queen, Mrs Bainbridge said: “If she has seen it and signed it herself, I will accept it but if she has just used a stamp she can have it back.”
Together with more than 100 guests, Mrs Bainbridge will celebrate her birthday at a party this weekend.
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