Arbroath centenarian Helen Gibb celebrates 105th birthday

An Arbroath woman celebrated her 105th birthday this week.

Helen Gibb (nee Wylie), better known to her family and wide circle of friends as Nellie, remains as bright as a button and lives in the town with her niece Evelyn Robertson and Evelyn’s husband Jim.

She celebrated at Seaton Grove residential home on Wednesday with her family and was joined by depute Angus provost Peter Murphy and Angus Lord Lieutenant Georgiana Osborne.

Born in the town’s Helen Street, she had five brothers and two sisters. Mrs Gibb worked in Fraser’s shoe factory but, after marrying John in 1929, devoted herself to bringing up their son and daughter.

Mr Gibb, who spent his working life at Fraser’s Foundry, died in 1975 after being cared for at home by his wife.

Mrs Gibb, along with her sisters, greatly enjoyed holidays with their extended family and spent many happy times with nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

Although her eyesight and hearing have deteriorated, Mrs Gibb still keeps up to date with the news and enjoys good company and conversation.

Photo by Jim Ratcliffe.