A resident at a Larkhall care home celebrated a special 100th birthday recently.
Bill Pollock celebrated becoming a centurion in style at Clinton House Nursing Home in Larkhall as he was greeted by a piper playing outside where family joined in a socially distant outdoor visit.
He also received his customary birthday card from HM the Queen sending on her best wishes, meanwhile birthday greetings from family far and wide, including Canada, were received on the day.
Bill turned 100 on February 26, during the country’s full lockdown, however staff at Clinton House ensured his family could still wish him a happy birthday via a Zoom call set up in the nursing home.
He was counting down the days to turning turned 100. Care home staff put on a big presentation as they told how excited Bill was leading up to the big day.
Bill said: “I had a fantastic day, I loved it. It was great to see my family and celebrate turning 100.”
Bill was joined by family and staff to look back at some fantastic memories where he enjoyed many hobbies including cycling and gardening.
Bill was a plumber to trade and also worked for the Hospital Board and in the shipyards during World War 2.
On top of that, he worked part time as a barman in the Jolly Beggars in Wellgate Street in the town.
Bill had two children with wife Martha who sadly passed away, but son Jim and daughter Janice were able to celebrate with Bill on the day.
Bill played Bicycle Polo during the 1940’s and represented Scotland at International Level, the bikes that they used had no brakes, so a lot of effort was used to play this sport.
Residents at the care home enjoyed a special afternoon tea with Bill, who was also greeted by a phonecall from his brother in Canada. He also popped on a video call to receive birthday wishes from his granddaughter and great-granddaughter.
Full birthday decor draped the care home indoors and outside on the day.
Bill was born in his family home on Marshall Street and stayed there all the way to moving into Clinton House.
Clinton House wished Bill a big happy birthday, saying: “Congratulations are in order to Mr William Pollock of 30 Marshall St ,Larkhall who celebrates his 100th Birthday today.
“We wish him a very happy 100th Birthday and hope that he celebrates with his favourite tipple, Navy Rum. He really is a true Larky Masher.”
