YESTERDAY (Wednesday) proved a special day for some in Comet country, who marked a birthday which only comes round once every four years.

February 29, or Leap Day, was more than just an extra day in the calendar for Lucille Shears.

The 20-year-old, who is from Hitchin and now lives in Letchworth GC, marked her birthday with a child’s tea party.

“I decided to have a child’s tea party, with jelly and ice-cream as really I am five,” said Lucille, who is from Hitchin and now lives in Letchworth GC.

“I’ve been given a lot of joke gifts, like a Tellytubbies teddy. I’ll probably go out for dinner too, as I should probably do something grown up as well.

“I usually try and get away with two birthdays normally - I’ll say that February 28 and March 1 are my birthdays.

“I’ve had a few problems with the date, some things online say the date doesn’t exist, but generally it is ok.”

The date is also an extra special one for one man, who celebrated his 100th birthday.

Claude Henry Carter, who lives in Regent Street, Stotfold, marked his 100th year with a helicopter ride.

Prior to the ride, he was picked up in a classic car as a surprise treat.

The first Comet country leap year baby was also welcomed into the world yesterday.

Sally Allen, of Haycroft Road, Stevenage, gave birth to 9lb Samuel Frederick Allen, and returned home with him on the same day.

• View next week’s Comet for pictures of our leap year babies.