100 reasons for family to celebrate as centenarian milestone marked in Aultbea in Wester Ross
A MILESTONE birthday was cause for celebration in Wester Ross.
James Crook – better known to loved ones as grandad Jim – marked his 100th birthday surrounded by family.
And Ross and Cromarty Lord Lieutenant Joanie Whiteford, as the Queen’s representative in the area, made a trip to pass on Her Majesty’s best wishes with a special birthday card
Mrs Whiteford said: “I had the pleasure of presenting a 100th birthday card to James, who is so fortunate to live with his daughter Kimberley and her husband Andy at Oran Na Mara, which sits above Aultbea.”
He was born in Bolton and was married to Margaret. He is the eldest of three brothers. He worked on the buses as a conductor and driver.
During the World War II he served in the RAF, initially as a rear-gunner on Lancaster bombers. A hand injury saw him transferred to dispatch, and he saw active service in Italy and North Africa.
An avid fly-fisherman, for many years he visited and stayed at Mellon Udrigle. The family came to adore the area, so he came north with Kimberley and Andy six years ago.
Mrs Whiteford said: “He is so lucky to also have his granddaughters, Charlotte and Courtney, and great- granddaughter Ellie, whom he clearly adores, nearby.”
