Knightswood great-grandmum celebrates her 100th birthday with family and friends

There was a party atmosphere in Ramsay House in the Erskine home last month as much-loved resident Irene Barnes turned 100 on Sunday, February 26.

A birthday tea party was held for the guest of honour who was joined by her family, staff and friends in Ramsay House.

The birthday girl also received a special presentation of a birthday card from The Queen by Baroness Annabel Goldie, Deputy Lieutenant of Renfrewshire.

Irene, who is living with dementia, has been at the Erskine home since October 2013 but spent her life caring for her family, working hard and always being on the go.

Her late husband Donald served in the Army Catering Corps for more than five years but it was when he left his army days behind him that both their lives changed forever when the duo began working in the same Glasgow bakery.

They went on to marry and welcome two children. Today, Irene is a doting grandmother to four and great-grandmother to nine and the family were proud to celebrate her special day.

Donald, Irene’s son, said: “I think my mother may wonder what all the fuss is about but we think it is a great achievement to turn 100.

“She was a hard worker all her life. She was always very independent and enjoyed time on her own. She was never one for sitting still, she was on the go all the time and still is as the staff at Ramsay House will testify. In fact it is difficult to keep her still even now.”

He added: “My mother couldn’t be in a better place than Erskine. Staff in Ramsay House are great. They are so kind to my mother. They did her proud arranging the party and we thank them for organising everything.”

Veronica Dormer, Ramsay House manager, added: “It was lovely to see so many generations of Irene’s family come together to celebrate this momentous occasion.

“It’s not often we get to celebrate such a special birthday and it was a privilege for staff and residents to join the party. A wonderful day was had by all.”