Meet Glasgow's 'dancing queen' who turned 100 with King's message

Annie Gardener turned 100 at the weekend and enjoyed a bash with fellow residents and staff at Burlington Court Care Home.

Annie is a lifelong Glasgow Times reader and staff at the care home invited us along to share in her special day as the centenarian was given a VIP celebration to remember, which included a lavish cake, a balloon display and a piper to herald in her 100th year.

Annie with her family and the piper. (Image: Supplied)

The facility in Stepps Road where Annie has lived for three years after the loss of her husband Robert rolled out the red carpet with King Charles also sending his best wishes by way of a telegram.

Liz Munn, activities co-ordinator at the home, was among those who attended the celebrations on Saturday and said it was a day to remember.

She added: “Annie is an absolute inspiration – she not only gives the staff here a lift every day, but her fellow residents.

Annie's birthday balloons. (Image: Supplied)

“We call her the dancing queen because the minute someone puts on the radio or a bit of music, Annie is right up on her feet encouraging everyone to enjoy a wee spin around the place.

“She has always loved dancing and that passion has never left her. Annie says it keeps her young and when you look at her you can see it has stood her in good stead– she is absolutely fantastic for her age.”

Annie was married to husband Robert for 74 years before he passed away aged 96. The couple were familiar sights around the dancehalls of Glasgow and Annie’s love of ballroom has never diminished, despite her advancing years.

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She said: “Dancing has helped keep me young and my fondness for music has kept me active - and I don’t plan to stop getting everyone up for a jig anytime soon.

“I love all the old time tunes, but I don’t mind some of the newer stuff too. It’s all about keeping yourself going and I like to think I help to keep everyone in good spirits.”

Annie with her card from the King. (Image: Supplied)

The former factory worker was visited by family from England, who travelled north for her big day - and an appearance from daughter Helen, 79, helped make it one to remember.

Liz added: “Almost all of Annie’s family live down south, and with life being so busy, sadly she doesn’t get to see as much of them as she would like. But they all made an extra special effort to be here at the weekend and I know that meant a lot to her. She was over the moon to see Helen.”

Annie added: “Everyone went to so much effort and it a day I’ll always remember. If I can keep dancing, then hopefully there will be plenty more birthdays ahead for everyone to enjoy more get-togethers.”