Jean Magee was joined by family and friends for her special celebration, including Edith McQuiban, who played matchmaker for her.

Mrs Magee was introduced to her late husband Robert in the East End Post Office in Elgin by Mrs McQuiban, who will reach her landmark birthday in November.

Born in King Street, Elgin, Mrs Magee left school at 14 and for a time went to study sewing and cooking at the town's technical college but, as a war widow, soon left to start work.

She was employed in Ramsays drapery store in the town centre, which later became Benzie and Miller and then Arnotts department store.

Mrs Magee moved to Aberdeen for a time before returning to Elgin in 1937.

During World War II, Mrs Magee took over a Liverpool Victoria insurance round from the agent who was called up. She would cycle all round Lhanbryde and Urquhart, visiting the homes of customers, and taking the bus to Rothes and Hopeman.

Centenarian Jean Magee (left) shows off her 100th birthday card to friend Edith McQuiban, who will not reach the special milestone until November. Mrs Magee was introduced to her husband by Mrs McQuiban. NS

Mrs McQuiban, who lives in Elgin, brought together Mrs Magee and her future husband while he was stationed at Pinefield with the Army.

The couple married in Gourock and for 23 years Mr Magee was janitor at Seafield School in Elgin.

Mrs Magee, who has two sons and a daughter, lived at Hanover Court in the town but after being flooded twice moved in to Chandlers Court where she has lived now for five years.

Her 100th birthday party, held at Elgin Golf Club, saw her joined by family who travelled from as far afield as Canada and Ireland to share her special day on Tuesday.

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