Land Army Girl Nancy is awarded her medal

Aug 13 2008 Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

A RESIDENT of Summerlee House care home, in Coatbridge, was presented with a prestigious Land Army medal.

Nancy Jenkins (85) was rewarded for her five years service to the Land Army in 1941.

During this time, Nancy worked extremely hard on Clachan Farm in Roseneath for a Mr and Mrs Calderwood.

Nancy’s daughter, Allison McAlpine, helped to arrange this special day. She said: ‘‘In Scotland, the Land Army medals normally just get posted out but we thought we would arrange a little day for her.’’

Nancy volunteered for Land Army service against her parents’ wishes but was determined to lend a hand to the cause.

She was rewarded with a wonderful day and received treatment normally reserved for a queen. A buffet was provided for her and her family and she was showered with gifts.

Allison said: ‘‘She was thrilled. We got her hair and nails done and she was really pampered, which she deserves.’’

Coatbridge MP Tom Clarke was also present and was full of praise for Nancy’s dedication and her family’s love.

Allison said: ‘‘It was great for the family to get together. When families get together for someone of my mum’s age, it is normally for a funeral, so for us to see her so happy, and get the recognition she has earned, was just fantastic.’’