On Tuesday 14 May Cllr Kenny Macleod, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar visited Belle Maclean at Taigh Shiphoirt on the occasion of her 100th birthday and presented her with a gift on behalf of the communities of the Western Isles.
Cllr Macleod was joined by Rev William Heenan, St Culumba’s Church Stornoway and Iain Macaulay, Lord Lieutenant for the Western Isles, who presented Belle with a card on behalf of the King.
Speaking at the celebration in Taigh Shiphoirt the Convener wished Belle a happy birthday and read the following biography to those in attendance.
Cllr Macleod, said:
“Belle was born and brought up in North Street, Sandwick along with her sister Cathy and brother ‘Shockie’, both of whom have passed away.
“After leaving school she worked in J & E’s bakery for a time and was involved in home caring.
“She met her husband, Bill Maclean, from Burghead, when he was stationed in Stornoway with the RAF.
“They were married in 1955 and lived in Melbost before getting a house at No.7 Parkend, where she lived until last year when a fall led to her going into Dun Berisay Care Home and then to Taigh Shiphoirt.
“In spite of missing her own home and her garden which she worked on right up till last year, Belle never complains, and she is always grateful for all the care she receives from the staff in Seaforth House.
“Belle and Bill had two daughters, Fiona and Sheena, and three sons, Alastair, Iain and Stewart. Fiona has helped care for her mum as the rest of the family are in Aberdeen and London.
“She is well known for her kindness, her compassion and interest in everyone and all that is going on around her.
“She has a mischievous sense of humour, and her gentle smile and positive attitude in all circumstances, endears her to everyone.”
