Tribute paid to Thurso war veteran Sinclair Houston
A CAITHNESS war veteran who has died at the age of 102 has been described as "a gentleman with a lovely sense of humour".
Sinclair Houston, of Campbell Street, Thurso, passed away on Tuesday. In 2016, he received the Legion d’Honneur medal – France’s highest national military award – for the part he played in the Normandy landings during World War II.
Two years ago, the retired ironmonger received a telegram from the Queen to commemorate his 100th birthday which he celebrated with his wife Norma, sons Michael and Ronald, many other members of the family and friends.
Tribute was paid to Mr Houston by the chairman of Thurso Heritage Society, Alan McIvor, who knew him well.
"Sinclair was a gentleman with a lovely sense of humour," he said. "He had a great knowledge of Thurso, and of course the mill and foundry which his father owned. If I bumped into him on the street and had a blether he was always happy to share his knowledge.
"His memory was razor sharp, and he was always a pleasure to speak to and always well dressed. I interviewed him a couple of times for the website thursointeractive and he was brilliant, a real one-off.
"It's rare that you could find someone of his age who could recount his life, from his early years onwards, in such detail. He would speak about the mill and even give the measurements of the sizes of the blades on the water wheel."
Mr McIvor added: "When he ran MacKay's Ironmongers in High Street, I know he was very good to so many young couples who were starting out in married life and money might have been a struggle. He will be fondly remembered as a fine Thirsa mannie by many."
In an interview with the John O'Groat Journal marking his 100th birthday, Mr Houston said he was "very proud" to get his telegram from the Queen. "It was very touching."
He was "overwhelmed" by the cards and presents he received and had a great time at a party held in his honour.
Mr Houston, who was born on April 26, 1917, said at the time of his 100th birthday he was "very lucky" to have enjoyed good health. "I have had a long and happy retirement," he said.
Asked about the secret to a long life, he replied: “I think it is luck. I have a good wife and family and good friends. My life is very happy."
Mr Houston is survived by his wife, sons and two granddaughters.