'Out of this world' 100th birthday celebration for Cardonald's Jean Wilson

Jean, from Cardonald, marked her centenary with a socially distanced family celebration in the garden.

Thanks to family and staff who support her in her home the lockdown didn’t stand in the way of a good party.

Jean, a Loretto Housing, which is part of Wheatley Group, enjoyed a socially distanced celebration with her family, Loretto Housing staff and people who work for the Livingwell service, which helps older people live independently at home.

Jean, who lives with her 96-year-old sister Cecilia, was entertained by a piper who played for her outside, and saw the rest of her family at a safe distance the garden.

As well as her birthday card from the Queen and gifts from friends and family, she also received flowers from Livingwell staff.

And in case anyone didn’t realise it was her birthday, a huge banner was also pinned to the side of the building wishing her many happy returns.

Jean said: “I had a wonderful day. It was out of this world.

“The only thing was the weather - it was a wee bit cold, but we had a piper and a lovely buffet.

"I never thought it would happen because of the lockdown so it was really excellent and a lot of people turned up.”

She added: “The most difficult thing about lockdown has not been seeing my family.

"My nieces and great nieces usually come and visit, but I am with my sister and we still get on very well so I haven’t been lonely.”

Jean grew up in the Gorbals and spent the Second World War in the Women’s Air Force.

She said she had many happy memories of the past century, but most enjoyed her role in the Girl Guides.

She is still involved with the organisation and until lockdown she took part in regular meet ups.

Livingwell Advisor Eileen Lawson helped to organise the party for Jean.

She said: “Jean and Cecilia are just amazing. They are still living independently.

"It was a pleasure to be able to see them and celebrate with them.”