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Annie Hunter

Annie Hunter was born in Thornliebank on 24 February 1911, like her father before her. He worked in the printworks before they closed, then went to work at Weirs Foundry in Cathcart. She does not remember her mother, as she died when Annie's younger sister was born. Her stepmother was very loving. Her parents were good singers, and the family had many lovely evenings at home. Annie's older sister, who helped her very much when times were difficult, died some time ago. Her other sister lives in Thornliebank; they remain close.

Annie left school in Thornliebank when she was 14, even though she enjoyed many subjects such as composition, geography, cookery, and choir. She worked in the printworks, then as a shop assistant and a window dresser. Later, as housekeeper to a local businessman, she had a humorous experience. She was at the bus stop on her way to the "Steamie" with a case of dirty clothes and washboard. Her employer drove up in a big Bentley and offered her a ride there. There was a queue of women waiting to go into the "Steamie", and they thought it was hilarious that she should arrive in such a big car. They nicknamed her "The Duchess"!

Annie now lives in a pensioner's flat in Thornliebank, after years in terraced houses. Her husband, who was in the Royal Navy during World War II then went on to drive buses and work for Newcastle Brewers, died 25 years ago. They have one daughter, 4 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. As these relations all live in Newton Mears and Clarkstone, it is easy for Annie to visit and keep in touch. She keeps busy with many organisations: the lunch club, the ladies' circle club, and the Thornliebank Salt of the Earth Group. She has been blessed with good health, until she had to have a pacemaker fitted. Her worst times were when her father, mother and sister died. She hopes that there will come a time when there will be peace all over the world.