Old MacBook

I've resurrected an OLD MacBook (mid-2010)  Today I thought I'd dust it down and see if it could be of use to me.  In truth all I want it for is a glorified word processor for some part time study I'm doing.

Well it's completely flat and when I plug in the L-style MagSafe connector nothing happens! I've tried it on a number of occasions and all that happens is that occasionally the green light flashes on but immediately goes off, I'm assuming that means no power is getting into the laptop and possibly the cable is at fault?  It is showing up on my iPad! 

My question is Why and is there anything I can do? 

As mentioned above all I want it for is basic Word Processing and it's of an age that it's not worth paying for a professional repair. The machine was produced mid 2010

The model and serial number seem to be MacBook and Serial Number 45125LN8F5W