FORMER school dinner lady and great-grandmother, Carrie Martin of Bournemouth, has died at the age of 103.

Born in Christchurch, Caroline Martin, known as Carrie to friends and loved ones, spent the time from her early childhood into adulthood living in Kinson.

Carrie attended East Howe School, now known as Kingsleigh Primary School in Hadow Road, and grew up working during various periods of her life as a school dinner lady.

She went on to marry her husband, Stanley William Jack Martin, known as Jack to family and friends, at St Mark's Church in Talbot village on November 4, 1933.

The happy couple went on to welcome four children including Cyril, Jean, who has died, David and Gary, who all lived in Kinson Road in Kinson. Carrie continued living in the same house until around the age of 97, just a few years after the death of her husband.

In her spare time, Carrie enjoyed baking and making various treats for her children and their friends to enjoy, crocheting crafts and being out in the garden.

After moving to Sunrise Senior Living care home in Poole Road in Westbourne, Carrie loved to visit her many friends at the day centre and was a social person who was happiest spending time around other people.

She liked to watch TV, as well as the various performers and musicians who came to entertain the residents at Sunrise Senior Living, which included a monthly tea dance event. In addition, she thrived on being around her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On the occasion of her 100th birthday, Carrie told the Daily Echo that she was 'having a lovely day' and that she didn't know the secret to a long life, but indulged in a glass of Baileys on the odd occasion. Otherwise, she said, she lived a fairly healthy life, as she was joined by her three sons for a party at the home.

For the final three years of her life, Carrie lived at Meyrick Care Home in Branksome Wood Road.

She died on November 23 and her funeral took place at Poole Crematorium on Wednesday, December 7 with donations going to the cause, Cats Protection.