THE band is playing on for Mary Shanks, who is celebrating her 100th birthday to the tune of her beloved Scottish dance music.

Mary, from Maryhill, received cards from the Queen and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, along with a cake, flowers, and a little party in the afternoon.

The former shop assistant moved into Cumbrae House care home last year, and although being in a wheelchair means she has had to leave her dancing days behind, the familiar soundtrack playing along to her birthday still brings a glimmer to her eye.

Her daughter, Marion McBurnie, said they were all excited that the big day had finally come.

She said: “I’m like my mum, I’m quite a private person and keep my thoughts in my head, but there’s so much emotion going on in there just now.

“She didn’t drink, apart from the odd sherry, and has never been into a pub. She’s had a very happy life, and that’s her answer for how she’s made 100.

“She’s always loved Scottish music, and loved to dance. She used to go to the Barrowlands.”

Mary met her husband James when she was in her 20s during a trip to the shops. He wasn’t such a big fan of dancing, and asked her on a date to the pictures instead.

That meeting lead to a marriage and then a honeymoon in Blackpool, followed swiftly after by the birth of Marion, their only child.

The couple were married for 39 years when James sadly passed away, and although never remarrying, Mary had plenty of good friends around her, especially at her local dance hall.

She kept dancing right up until the point when her health made it no longer possible.

Still loving some sparkle, Mary was dressed up in a brand new glittery top to celebrate her birthday, marking a life that has seen some remarkable changes.

Mary has lived through 20 different Prime Ministers and 18 U.S. presidents, through both world wars, and seen enormous changes in technology.

Marion said that her mum had lived “a good life, but a hard life”.

James Calder, Cumbrae House home manager, said: “It’s always a special occasion when one of our residents turn 100.

“We would all like to wish Mary a very happy birthday and wish her many more happy years.”

Mary was joined on her birthday by fellow resident Helen Bradbury, who turned 101 last year.

The care home is located at St. Georges Cross, and is equipped with 66 beds, providing nursing, enhanced residential and residential care.

Birthday celebrations went on throughout the day, and included live entertainment and a buffet.