A 97-year-old war veteran had an emotional reunion with a military vehicle she first drove during WW2 – when she was just 18.

Joan Johnson was surprised when she found her 3-ton Bedford army truck parked outside on Sunday by the team at Care UK’s Liberham Lodge in Leatherhead.

“I felt emotional seeing the vehicle again,” Ms Johnson said.

“It made me realise my life has been quite eventful.

“I felt very proud that I was able to help with the war effort with my driving” she added.

Ms Johnson, now a grandmother of five, was only 17 when she signed up to the Women’s Land Army and just 18 when she transferred to the Auxiliary Territorial Service as a driver.

Her first post lasted six months in Scotland before she passed her tests and was moved to Camberley driving centre to learn how to handle dodge trucks, jeeps and motorbikes.

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Ms Johnson served as a convoy driver through the war, waking up at 6am to transport vehicles to the coast and returning in a lorry the same evening with fellow servicewomen.

After three years of service at the end of 1946 she left the army to pursue a career at the Home Office, working as a personal assistant.

She later settled down with her husband, Army Captain Johnny, and had two children.

Deputy manager at Liberham Lodge, Natasha Webster said: “We wanted to do something special to mark this year’s Armistice Day at Liberham Lodge, and to remember those who have served in the armed forces, including Joan.”

“We were delighted to be able to surprise Joan with her military vehicle, which brought back many memories.

“Her face lit up when she saw the vehicle close up, and fellow residents were astounded by the knowledge she had of its mechanics.

“It was fantastic to hear Joan’s stories and hear the memories of residents growing up in wartime Britain and serving their country.”

The surprise was part of a week-long Armistice Day remembrance occasion at the home, allowing residents to handle various war-related memorabilia such as uniforms, helmets and ration packs ahead of the coming anniversary of Armistice Day on Friday.

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