Magnificent century milestone for Mina

Mina, who loves romantic novels, had read all the love stories at Dromore Library and so began to visit Banbridge Library.

Mina’s granddaughter, Denise McGuigan Vage, praised staff there for their kind gesture.

“The staff were joking with her that she was probably their oldest customer, but when they found out she had recently turned 100 they couldn’t believe it,” she said.

“Later she got a call from them asking her to come in for a wee cup of tea to celebrate. They had birthday cake and tea and presented her with a lovely card and flowers.”

In June Mina also celebrated at the Belmont Hotel with over 50 family and friends.

“The table settings, room, food and service were just lovely,” said Denise. “The Belmont really excelled themselves and my grandmother loved it. She said it was just like a fairytale - she’s still talking about it.

“She didn’t want any presents for her birthday either and instead collected money which she donated to her great grandson’s school - Donard Special School. She’s remarkable.”

“She doesn’t look her age and loves a laugh and a giggle. She watches Countdown every day and calls out the answers.”

Mina still lives at home with her 80 year old daughter Eileen McRoberts.

Eileen said: “There aren’t too many 80 year old women who can still talk about having their mother. It’s a privilege to have her - she’s my mum and my best friend.”

Having lived all her life in Dromore, Mina has seen many changes there since 1916.

Eileen said: “My mum talks of the time when you could walk down Gallows Street into the town and you knew everybody, but not now.”

As for the secret to long life Eileen says her mum hasn’t talked much about that, so whatever it is - Mina’s not giving too much away.