Joan set to take off for her 80th
GRANDMOTHER of 12 Joan Cleary will take to the skies as part of her 80th birthday celebrations, as one of her gifts was a flight from Newcastle Airfield!
The Upper Dargle Road woman was joined by friends and family last Saturday at the White Room at Ocean Bar and Grill for a wonderful party to mark the happy occasion.
The event started with a family dinner, before Joan was surprised by the arrival of her good friends and long-standing neighbours for a get-together. She knew about the meal, but not the afters, and was delighted to see everyone and continue the fun. She and all her guests enjoyed the party thoroughly.
Joan’s husband Gerry, her children Madeleine, Gerard and Austen, her daughters-in-law, grandchildren and many other relatives were there to help her party into her 80s.
There were about 45 people at what daughter Madeleine said was a beautiful venue, where they were served a delicious meal.
Among the gifts was the forthcoming trip on a small aircraft, with just Joan and the pilot set to take off, a most unusual present from the Byrne family.
The brave lady is a bit of a daredevil and very excited about the forthcoming adventure.
Joan has lived in Bray all her life. As well as being a loved and caring mother, she is a brilliant grandmother, and is totally devoted to all 12 of them.
‘As long as they’re okay, that’s the main thing for her,’ said her daughter.
Just this week, her birthday celebrations continued, with afternoon tea at the Royal Hotel with the girls yesterday (Tuesday).
Joan’s family and friends are thrilled to be able to spoil her at this very special time.