Welcoming a new addition is a joy for any family and even more so when it marks the fifth generation of women. 

Rebecca Allen, 28, was delighted to welcome her first child Arabella with her partner, Lewis Hopkins on June 6.  

While many of us never get the chance to meet our great-grandparents, Arabella is lucky enough to have not only her great-grandmother still living, but also her great-great grandmother.  

Joan Doggett, 89, was born in Ipswich. She gave birth to her daughter, Susan, at the age of 20, so beginning a family trend.

Susan Lloyd, 69, welcomed her daughter Jane also at the age of 20. Jane Buchanan, 49, became a mum to Rebecca, who will turn 29 this year.

“I broke tradition!” laughed Rebecca.  

Ipswich Star: L-R: Rebecca Allen holding baby Arabella; great-great grandmother Joan Doggett, grandmother Jane Buchanan and great-grandmother Susan Lloyd. Image: Rebecca AllenL-R: Rebecca Allen holding baby Arabella; great-great grandmother Joan Doggett, grandmother Jane Buchanan and great-grandmother Susan Lloyd. Image: Rebecca Allen (Image: Rebecca Allen)

Ipswich Star: Rebecca said she is looking forward to making new memories with her family and baby Arabella. Image: Rebecca AllenRebecca said she is looking forward to making new memories with her family and baby Arabella. Image: Rebecca Allen (Image: Rebecca Allen)

On Monday, Rebecca, Jane and Susan took Arabella to visit her great-great grandmother. 

Getting all five generations together was a truly special moment.  

“She was just in awe of her,” said Rebecca. “She kept staring at her the whole time we were there. We’re very lucky.” 

The whole family have grown up in Ipswich, while Rebecca now lives in Kesgrave.  

“We would always be together,” said Rebecca. “My mum has a sister who has three daughters, and I have a sister too. Weekends would always be spent with them, or with my nan.  

“Every Mother’s Day without fail, we would always get together, whether at my nana’s house or my great auntie’s. 

“It’s been nice growing up with lots of lovely women, and spending time with them.” 

She is thankful that Arabella was born just before the summer holidays, as she will now have ample time to spend with her family, including all of her cousins. 

“We’re going to see my great nana as much as we can throughout the summer. It will be lovely to make some new memories with our little one.”