AN IRVINE grandmother is celebrating a rare milestone after celebrating her 100th birthday.


Lina Strain got together with friends and family to toast turning 100 this weekend.


Daughter Irene says Lina was joined by son Jim, her two grandchildren and one great-grandson as well as nieces, nephews and relatives who travelled from Australia and Canada, at a celebratory day at Bogside Gold Club last week.


Lina grew up in Irvine's Harbourside and has a long and much-loved history with that area of the town.


Her grandfather was the locally well-known harbour pilot, Neil McKinnon. Lina's father was William Black who was the engineer on the George Brown tug boat.


Irene said: "My mum spent most of her life in the harbour and has seen many changes. When she was growing up Irvine harbour was a very busy port. She often reminisces of the cranes unloading the boats with lots of different things, in particular the wood boat for the sawmill, horse and carts would run up and down to the sawmill all day.


"She still loves it down there today, although a lot has changed."
Irene says Lina was delighted with her special birthday celebrations and loved her special telegram from the Queen.


She said: "She never thought she would get to this age. She has outlived all six of her brothers and sisters. She got a lot of lovely gifts and cards. people were very generous."


Congratulations Lina and Happy birthday from all from the Irvine Times.