He took up lawn bowls as a young man in the 1930s and his hobby has lasted a lifetime.

Now at the grand old age of 101, George Mulveney still manages an occasional game, playing lawn bowls in the summer and carpet bowls in the winter.

George, who worked in a plumber’s merchants, lives in sheltered housing in Carntyne and admits he is not as fit as he used to be.

But given a bit of help, he still enjoys a regular game and puts his long life down to exercise and the fact he has never smoked or drank alcohol.

George, who has one son, four grand-children and four great-grandchildren, also maintains a keen sense of humour which he says help to keep him going.

George said: “I started bowling in the 1930s but now play very little as I get puffed out and have to get someone to help me upstairs. Bending is too much for me now but I still enjoy watching the games.”

Despite finding it increasingly difficult as the years progress, during the Queen’s birthday celebrations he was to be found on the greens with his friends.

The event was organised by Glasgow Old People’s Welfare Association which has worked with older and vulnerable people for almost 70 years.

George was among the guests at the Fred Paton Day Care Centre at St George’s Cross for the Welfare Association’s presentation of prizes for its annual bowls and domino competitions.

There he met up with friends Anne Livesay, 94, John Connelly, 100, and Jean Glen, who is 96.

He also joined friends yesterday at the High Carntyne Church of Scotland for a practice session.

Glasgow Old People’s Welfare Association believes age is just a number and provides opportunities for older people to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle wherever possible.

Its services include five day centres, dementia services, over 100 weekly clubs, neighbourhood visiting services and outreach befriending services.

Welfare officers help older people maximise their income, fill in forms and provide befriending services.