A FORMER West End waitress who has lived through two world wars and overcame personal tragedy has today celebrated her 100th birthday.

Irene Jenkins, a resident at Pear Tree Nursing Home in Gordon Road, Chingford, for the last eight years, received a card from the Queen and messages from numerous well-wishers.

Her daughter Brenda Durdin, 73, of Bernwell Road, Chingford, said: "I can't believe it.

"I am really happy that she has got to 100.

"Who knows how much further she has to go but I hope it is a little further."

About 20 years ago Mrs Jenkins had to cope with the deaths of both her son, John, and husband, Edward, from cancer, within three months of each other.

Four years ago Mrs Jenkins also suffered a stroke, which has affected her speech, but she still leads a happy life.

Born in Pimlico, she lived in Westminster and worked at Lyons Corner House restaurant in Piccadilly as a waitress, where her future husband often visited.

During the Second World War the family were evacuated from their home in Hackney and moved to Cambridge.

Her husband worked as a mechanic, building roads and runways for fighter planes in Epping and Cambridge.

The family moved back to London and lived in Chingford after the war.

Son Michael, 65, of Drysdale Avenue, Chingford, said: "It's amazing to see her here at a 100.

“To reach this age considering she has had a stroke, I’m really proud of her.”

Mrs Jenkins has six grand-children and nine great-grand children, who will be celebrating with her at a party this Sunday, January 30.