An Annan centenarian was the Bella of the Ball at a surprise celebration in the town’s Commercial Inn on Monday.
Bella Bell, known as the pub’s “karaoke queen”, was still in fine voice leading the songs at the lively gathering organised by publican John Steel and his daughter, Georgia Clark.
She belted out her favourite numbers Teenager in Love, I Just Called To Say I Love you and The Wonder of You during an afternoon of fun.
Bella was presented with flowers from Councillor Richard Brodie on behalf of Dumfries and Galloway Council, and Joyce Wylie for Annan Community Council.
An extra treat was a special performance for her inside the pub by Toby,Tim, Ian, Davie and David from The Royal Burgh of Annan Pipe Band.
And there was a giant card signed by all her friends at The Commercial, along with a birthday cake featuring a picture of her.
John, who has compered the Monday karaoke club at the pub for 15 years, said: “Thank you everyone that turned up to celebrate Bella’s 100th birthday. You made her day. She never expected the celebration and thoroughly enjoyed herself.
“She is our karaoke queen and came every Monday for a singalong for many years, missing a few of late when she’s not been up to it. We were glad to see her back in action on the microphone. She’s an amazing lady and we wish her well.”
Bella said: “It was a fantastic day.”
She was joined by family for the occasion – including nieces, Lorraine Stones and Tracey Curtis, who came from Northampton to be with her. They held their own party for her on her actual birthday on Tuesday.
Born in Annan as Isabella Crawford – but known as Bella – she was educated at Greenknowe School and joined the grocery business, Wilson Bros, aged 19.
She has outlived both of her husbands – James Smith and Lesley Bell – and has a son, James Smith, and grand-daughter, Erin.
