A Dorset midwife is due to receive a special delivery as she celebrates her 100th birthday.

Sister Doreen Snapes, a well known midwife and district nurse in Poole, is set to receive a special message from the Queen on August 12 when she reaches her 100th birthday.

Doreen started her training for her career during the second world war, and moved to Dorset in 1959 to take up the District Nurse and Midwife role in Upton and Lytchett Minster.

She quickly became a much loved member of the community and was given the nickname “Snippy”.

During her career, Doreen was responsible for the delivery of 1103 babies. Even in retirement, she would often be stopped by mothers she had helped, or their now grown up children.

Outside of her work, Doreen has always been a keen gardener and her seasonal supplies of home made cakes and preserves from her “fruit cage” have been a well known feature at local events.

Doreen has also enjoyed plenty of trips abroad, including to Germany, Switzerland, Israel and Australia, and has until recently been an active member of many church and community groups.

As well as receiving a special message from the Queen, Doreen will also be able to enjoy a birthday party as she turns 100.

Four generations of her family will be joining her, alongside many friends, including Kevin who was the first baby Doreen delivered when she came to Dorset.