Ella Macleod, who celebrated her turn of a century at Bupa’s Hill View Care Home in the West Dunbartonshire town of Clydebank, credits her good health to a nightly ritual of a small glass of her favourite vino before bed.
Rather than the more commonly recommended daily glass of red, the centenarian insists rosé wine instead holds the key to a long life.
Ella has also always maintained a healthy, balanced diet and has kept fit and active as much as possible over the years.
Born in 1917, Ella was raised in Clydebank and has stayed in the area ever since. She trained as a hairdresser in her youth, before later landing a job with Singers Sewing Factory, where she worked both before and after the war.
She met her partner Duncan in the 1930s at the Singers Tennis Club. The loved up pair married in 1946 after Duncan returned from World War Two and went on to have two children. Today, Ella is a grandmother of four.
Her son Alistair, 62, described his mother as a traditional housewife, and speaks fondly of her fantastic culinary skills.
He says: “She absolutely loved cooking for us when we were little. One particular meal I remember having often was goulash. The way it was in those days, you got it whether you liked it or not – thankfully I loved it!
“As for her love of rosé wine - it has always held a special place in my mum’s heart. She wouldn’t even think of touching a glass of white or red and she is certain rosé is the way to go if you want to have a long and healthy life.
“She also made a point of keeping herself active. She loves socialising and played bowls for many years, as well as being part of a local sewing bee club.”
Ella celebrated her milestone birthday with family, friends, staff and fellow residents at Hill View care home. Music and entertainment was provided by Stevie-B who kept the party swinging and a large buffet was laid on by the kitchen staff.
Deputy Lord Provost John Millar visited her on the day to present her with a congratulatory telegram from Queen Elizabeth II. Ella received this with grace, while sporting her very own birthday tiara.
Children from the local Lady of Loretto Primary School also came to celebrate the memorable occasion and made her a special birthday banner.
Graham Kelly, home manager at Bupa’s Hill View Care Home, says: “Everyone had a great day for Ella’s birthday and lots of lovely photos and memories were shared.
“Keen not to miss out on the big day, staff members who would normally have the day off also came along to join in with the party.
“All of us here love working with Ella and are so proud of her grand achievement. We wish her a big happy 100th birthday!”
