Well wishers gathered at Taigh Shiphoirt care home in Stornoway to celebrate Belle Maclean’s centenary event.
Kenny Macleod, convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar visited Belle on the occasion of her 100th birthday and presented her with a gift on behalf of the communities of the Western Isles.
He was accompanied by Rev William Heenan of St Columba’s Church Stornoway, and Iain Macaulay, Lord Lieutenant for the Western Isles, who presented Belle with a card on behalf of King Charles.
Belle was born and brought up in North Street, Sandwick, by Stornoway along with her sister Cathy and brother ‘Shockie’, both of whom have passed away.
After leaving school she worked in J & E’s bakery for a time and was involved in home caring.
She met her husband, Bill Maclean, from Burghead, when he was stationed in Stornoway with the RAF.
They married in 1955 and lived in Melbost before moving to Parkend, where she lived until last year when a fall led to her going into Dun Berisay Care Home and then to Taigh Shiphoirt.
In spite of missing her own home and her garden which she worked on right up till last year, Belle never complains, and she is always grateful for all the care she receives from the staff in Seaforth House.
Belle and Bill had two daughters, Fiona and Sheena, and three sons, Alastair, Iain and Stewart. Fiona has helped care for her mum as the rest of the family are in Aberdeen and London.
Kenny Macleod said: “She is well known for her kindness, her compassion and interest in everyone and all that is going on around her.
“She has a mischievous sense of humour, and her gentle smile and positive attitude in all circumstances, endears her to everyone.”
Lewis woman celebrates 100th birthday with card from King Charles
17 May 2024
