Dancers help Camelon woman celebrate her 100th birthday

Jean Hunter marked her 100th birthday on Friday, April 10 at Newcarron Residential and Nursing Care Home where she lives.

However it wasn’t your usual celebration given the current lockdown situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

She was joined for the occasion by son Derek, daughter-in-law Roslyn and their two sons – but they had to remain outside the home. Her daughters Brenda and Betty were unable to attend as they are both self-isolating.

But despite the circumstances the home ensured there were plenty of celebrations for Jean to mark reaching the special milestone.

Anna Stoddart (11), whose mum works at the home, and Lucy Forrest (13) entertained Jean and other residents at the window with their dancing.

The pair are members of Claire Hammell School of Dance in Larbert.

Jean grew up in Camelon, as one of seven children. She had three brothers and three sisters.

It was while working in the Camelon Co-op’s upholstery department that she met her late husband Jack. He had moved from Fife and got himself a job as an upholsterer at the Co-op.

The couple were married on June 29, 1940 and went on to set up their own business, JC Hunter Upholstery in Main Street, Camelon.

Both husband and wife worked in the business for over 30 years. Jack was the old fashioned craftsman working on the furniture while Jean did the sewing.

Together Jack and Jean had four children – Betty (77), Brenda (73), Derek (55) and Jim, who died in Canada, aged 49.

The couple were married for 64 years before Jack passed away in 2004.

Jean has many grandchildren, as well as great grandchildren.

And in her younger days she was a keen bowler.

A member of Camelon Bowling Club, she was a Scottish Champion in the past and was very passionate about the sport.

Daugher Brenda said: “The home organised for dancers outside and a staff member was doing an Elvis tribute for her too. It was really super what they were doing for her.

“We were all so sad not to be able to share her 100th birthday with her, but we’re going to have another party with family and friends when this is all over.

“It was such a special day and we’ll make up for it then.”