Photo by Alan V Walker
Doreen pictured with the fabulous ‘War Babies’!

On Friday 9th June 2005, Our Dogs own latest octogenarian - though you’d never know it to look at her! - Doreen Reynolds celebrated her 80th birthday with family and friends in style at the Wolverly Memorial Hall. In keeping with her selflessness, all was organised and prepared for by Doreen herself with donations and proceeds from Doreen’s own Treasure Chest raffle going to the Kidderminster branch of the Salvation Army’s New Roof Fund.

This was very much in the theme of World War II nostalgia, with entertainment by the fabulous War Babies. During which there were fake air raids where all had to hide under tables - followed of course by a parade of war casualties, dancing to Glenn Miller and a grand old knees up after some very welcome refreshments.

During the party it was revealed that not only is Doreen an Our Dogs reporter extraordinaire, but from an early age was originally a song and dance girl, keeping Midland communities entertained during the war and was associated with some of the period’s best known big bands. Before taking to showing and breeding toy dogs - Pekingese in particular, as well as becoming the well-known judge and observer of Dogdom.

Her wit has never dulled with age and on the night it was clear that she was still the entertainer and a ‘game ole bird’ as Doreen joined in everything, proving that if life may have begun in the 40s, you also get reborn at 80!

For most it wasn’t just nostalgia, it was truly a night to remember.

Many happy returns Doreen.
Alan V Walker