By George Payne
A NEWTOWNARDS resident has celebrated his 100th birthday.
George Ashmore marked his big day with a special family get together in Knotts restaurant on Saturday afternoon.
George was born and bred in East Street in the town in 1926, the eldest of seven children. According to daughter Judith, he hated going to school, often asking the teacher if he could go to the toilet before leaving the building. At the age of 14 as the Second World War was raging, he wanted to join the army but his father would not allow him, although he was allowed to join the Home Guard.
After the war he went to work at the Debrettas factory where he rose to become head mechanic. He worked there for over 25 years, primarily fixing and maintaining sewing machines, which would eventually become his main life’s work.
When he left the factory George continued fixing sewing machines, this time in his own small business. His family recall sewing machines and various parts always lying around his home.
He married Elsie but she tragically passed away.
George later married Roberta and they had one daughter – Judith – who also had a stepbrother named Paul. George also has two grandchildren who he loves dearly. “He’s such a character who always had a big sense of humour,” said Judith.
“On Sundays we would go for a run, usually to get ice cream, and he would have done things such as constantly going around the roundabout just to annoy my mum. I always think that’s what keeps him going.”
“He’s always been very protective and looking out for his family, even in his older age,” she added.
“He’s slowing down now but he still makes sure to get out and about as much as he can. He has become well known and well loved in his own community,” said Judith.
