A great-great-grandmother from Glasgow has celebrated her 104th birthday and is preparing for an emotional reunion with her long-lost brother after more than six decades.
Birthday celebrations
Susan Gair, born in 1922, marked her birthday on August 11, described as looking as "glamorous" as ever and "full of the Glasgow banter". Speaking to Glasgow Live, she said her secret to a long life is "locked away", adding that years of no alcohol and no smoking keep you "as sharp as a tack".
The self-confessed fashionista from Pollok has four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. Last weekend, she celebrated with family and friends at Piccolo Mondo in Renfrew, followed by a more intimate meal on Tuesday with her daughter Melissa, son John, daughter-in-law Irene, and granddaughter Lynsey at Leonardo's in Crookston.
Reunion plans
Her special birthday celebrations will continue in the coming weeks as Susan reunites with her brother William after over 60 years. The reunion follows an article from a sister title, shared in 2022, marking her 100th birthday, which prompted a long-lost niece to make contact.
William, 86, is Susan's last living sibling and lives in a care home in London. After the story, his daughter Liz contacted family members through social media, and plans are now in place for William and Susan to meet halfway in Leeds.
When asked how it feels to be 104, Susan replied: "I will tell you when I feel old."
Family tributes
Granddaughter Lynsey, 42, from Crookston, said: "We had a great day celebrating, she was full of smiles, laughter and lots of Glasgow banter. My Nanna is a very glamorous granny, very stylish, and takes pride in her appearance.
"She has a heart of gold and has always done everything for her family. She is the queen and rock of the family, and has great strength and kindness."
Born in Bishopbriggs, Susan met her husband Charles at "the dancing" when they were both teenagers. She worked in a local munitions factory before they married and moved to Glasgow a few years later. She lost her husband and son, both named Charles, over 35 years ago and 14 years ago, respectively.
It is tradition for Susan to celebrate with her favourite cake from a local Chinese bakery, and she managed to sneak in a few slices this week. Lynsey joked: "She is looking forward to bedtime for another slice with her tea."
In pictures from the celebrations, Susan is seen in a pink flowery blouse with a matching necklace, posing in front of pink balloons. Susan, who has had two hip replacements and survived Covid at age 99, believes her clean lifestyle is the reason she is celebrating her 104th year. She said: "I've always lived a clean and honest life, been hard working and drank no alcohol."
