I WOULD like to send congratulations to Dundee resident Gerry Morrison upon his 100th birthday (“First tipple for centenarian”, The Herald, November 5). Mr Morrison’s resistance to the consumption of alcohol is, of course, remarkable. What is even more remarkable is that he refrained from alcohol during a career which encompassed being in the army (not known for its off-duty sobriety), a train and bus conductor (a job guaranteed to witness the drunken frolics of certain travellers), a lamplighter at Dundee’s harbour (that might have stumped the panel on What’s My Line a few years ago), and then a window cleaner for 47 years. What a varied and interesting career.
How he could have stayed off the drink if he had seen half the sights seen by George Formby when he was cleaning window? George apparently saw sights such as the activities of honeymoon couples, an imbiber capable of drinking the contents of his bath, and a lady who looked like a flapper on the screen, but looked 80 years old when caught unawares through the window.
No doubt, Mr Morrison could tell a few tales. Slainte mhath and good luck to him.
Ian W Thomson,
38 Kirkintilloch Road, Lenzie.
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