105-year old’s secret to long life is ‘sipping on Gin and Juice’

Ina Carruthers also believes her longevity is due to her diet of wheat-bran cereal, toast, and biscuits.

She celebrated her 105th birthday on St Andrew’s Day alongside residents at Ailsa Craig care home in Glasgow.

Born in 1910, Ina worked as a machinist and an engineer in a factory during WW2 and managed to score a wage three-times higher than her male counterparts.

She married her husband William at London Road Church in the city and the pair had their reception at a nearby tearoom.

The couple had three children - Ian, 70, Maureen, 65, and Sarah, who died of appendicitis when she was eight.

Ina said that living a long life “takes hard work” and requires a lot of effort.

She said: “It takes hard work to live a long life and you have to put the effort in. I worked hard during the war while I raised my children.

“I also think it’s important to treat yourself, and in my case, gin with orange juice is one of my favourite indulgences.

“I used to go dancing every Monday at a club in Cessnock, and I’d be sure to order it.”

Ina told how she was “lucky” to be able to get a job as a machinist during the war with a salary higher than that of her male co-workers.

She said: “I got very lucky with the job I had - I started off as a machinist then worked my way up to become an engineer.

“Most workers would be paid £3 a week but my salary was almost £9, which meant I could treat myself more often.

“One time, I splashed out and bought a brand new fur coat.”

Kathleen Glasgow, manager at Ailsa Craig Care Home, said: “Everyone was delighted to help Ina celebrate the big day.

“Ina always has fantastic stories to tell and is such a pleasure to be around. She’s popular with everyone who lives and works here.

“Residents and staff had a fantastic time helping Ina to celebrate with drinks, refreshments and party food - alongside traditional Scottish cuisine for St. Andrew’s day.

“Turning 105 is such an incredible accomplishment and we’re all so proud of Ina.”