Kitchen worker Jean Oliver is the oldest Wetherspoons worker in the country…aged 90.
The widower has been employed by the budget boozer for 27 years.
She joined her local Spoons – called The Surrey Docks – the day it opened in 1997.
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Dedicated Jean only applied for the role as kitchen associate when her husband Ted died.
She had just turned 63 at the time.
Sprightly Jean still does two four shifts per week, on Tuesday and Wednesday.
She helps prepare the meals at the pub in Surrey Quays, south-east London and is like the “grandma” of the team who acts like the real “boss.”
Jean was presented with a birthday cake in the shape of a ’90’ to mark her landmark day and a surprise party was thrown for her.
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She donned a tiara and was joined by workmates and ex-colleagues.
Others who couldn’t make it send video messages.
She still works in the kitchen with Pauline Curtis who started the same day as her.
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A Wetherspoons spokesperson said: “Now, at 90, Jean is Witherspoon’s oldest employee.”
Her old pub manager Kylee Garwood said: “Jean is a well-loved and valuable team member, as well as being very well known in the area and by all regular customers.”
She made the cake for Jean.
Kylie added: “She didn’t have a clue about the party. It was a complete surprise.
“She had a lovely day and didn’t stop smiling.
“All of the staff absolutely love her.
“She is like a grandma to a lot of them, especially the younger members.
“Jean is an absolute legend, a real gem, and it’s a pleasure to have her working as part of our diverse team.
“In fact, she is the real boss.”
Jean is originally from Old Kent Road and moved to Rotherhithe at the age of 11 and has remained ever since.
She previously spent 36 years working for the home help service, in Southwark, as reported on What’s The Jam.
Kylee added: “Jean is a real inspiration.
“To live the life that she still leads, aged 90, including still working with us, is fantastic.
“It’s definitely something to shout about and celebrate.”
Jean said:“Thank you to Kylee, Pauline and everyone for a very special surprise birthday celebration.”
Wetherspoon’s founder and chairman, Tim Martin, added: “Many congratulations to Jean on her 90th birthday.
“We all look forward to many more celebrations with such an inspirational Wetherspoon team member.”
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