Margaret dances her way to 104

Published: Wednesday 3 April 2024

This photo shows Provost Margaret Cooper and DL David Russell celebrating Margaret McDade's 104th birthday

A love of dancing has helped a remarkable 104-year-old remain twinkle toed throughout her life.

Margaret McDade celebrated her milestone birthday surrounded by family and friends at David Walker Gardens in Rutherglen.

She said: “I’ve loved dancing all my life, and I believe it’s that and a positive attitude that has helped me reach 104 years of age.

“Although my ability to join in with dances is limited these days, I still love tapping my toes and moving to the music.

“My faith has also always been very important to me and helped me appreciate the good times and brought comfort during any difficult periods of my life.”

Born in Westburn in 1920, Margaret attended St Charles’ Primary School and her first job was in Richmond Park Laundry. She met her husband James in 1938, and they married two years later at St Bride’s Church in Cambuslang. James sadly passed away in 1990.

The couple welcomed son James in 1950 followed by twin girls Anne and Marie in 1954, and daughter Margaret in 1965. Sadly, Anne passed away in 1995.

As well as looking after her family, Margaret worked in a number of jobs in and around the Cambuslang area and enjoyed an active social life at local Women’s Guilds and church halls.

She described the birth of her grandson Matthew in 1994 as “one of the happiest days of my life”.

Margaret was joined by the Provost of South Lanarkshire Margaret Cooper and Deputy Lord Lieutenant David Russell for the special occasion.

Provost Cooper said: “It was an absolute pleasure to be able to spend some time with Margaret, she was on magnificent form and looked so glamorous celebrating her birthday with friends and family.”

DL Russell said: “Congratulations to Margaret, you could tell how much joy she brings to everyone’s lives by the amount of people there to celebrate with her.”

Margaret was presented with a card, plaque and flowers from Provost Cooper and a card from King Charles by DL Russell.