A REMARKABLE centenarian who turned her hand to many different jobs before and during the Second World War has celebrated her hundredth birthday in Largs.
Helen Aird, known as Ella, enjoyed her big day with family and friends at Haylie House residential care home - and was delighted to receive a birthday greeting from King Charles.
Ella was born in Dalry Road, Kilbirnie, and went to Glengarnock Primary and then on to Spiers School.
Ater taking a course in Pitman's shorthand in Glasgow to train as a shorthand typist, she went to work in Glasgow as a secretary and later trained as a hairdresser.
A childhood illness meant Ella was exempt from serving in the forces during the Second World War - but she still did her bit, taking up a job in a steelworks and staying there until the war was over.
One night in 1946, she went to the Walker Hall, where she met her husband-to-be, Jack, who was on demob leave from the services - and love blossomed.
They were married in April 1948, and 15 months later their daughter Jennifer was born, followed in May 1956 by son Stewart.
Ella gave up her work to take care of her family, while Jack worked as an upholsterer for many years to support the family financially.
The familay holidayed in locations such as Rothesay and Arbroath, and bought a touring caravan which they used to travel around Scotland with friends.
Jennifer's son Stephen married in 2006 and he and his wife went on to give Ella two great-grandchildren, while Stewart and his wife Jacqui have two sons, Roger and Oliver - giving Ella two children, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren in total.
Jennifer and her family travelled down from Aberdeenshire for the celebrations - and said Ella's secret to a long life was her long and happy marriage to her late husband Jack.
Haylie House manager Irene Smith said: "We were delighted to celebrate Ella’s 100th birthday at Haylie House on April 9.
"Ella was joined by her family and staff for this wonderful occasion.
"Ella has been in Haylie House since October 2015, and is one of our longest staying residents in the home.
"Ella received her telegram from King Charles and the Queen Consort Camilla, which is a great honour.
"Ella enjoyed her birthday celebrations over two days to mark this very special occasion.
"The family and staff enjoyed afternoon tea and cakes and enjoyed sharing stories of Ella’s life through the decades.
"The family would like to say a special thank you to the board and staff for all of Ella’s care and attention over the years.
"Her 100th birthday was very memorable and the family will treasure the memories for ever."
Irene added it was a privilege to have cared for Ella over the years and said she and the staff were absolutely delighted to be part of her 100th birthday celebrations along with the family.
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