HALF-a-century of happy housing was celebrated in style at Crosshill Gardens in Port Glasgow — despite unlucky organisers picking the first day in eight weeks when it rained.

But it couldn't wash away the sunshine smiles, a 70s theme, fairground fun and a marquee tent provided the perfect setting for residents, family and friends to finally have a post-lockdown get-together.

It was the third attempt by people at the retirement complex to mark the 50th anniversary of the much-loved Bield housing development, due to previous Covid restrictions.

Despite the weather-related omission of a bouncy castle — which had been requested by spritely 91-year-old Margaret Sneddon — a great time was had by all.

Crosshill Gardens warden Myra Higgins said: "The real anniversary was in March but we couldn't do anything because of the restrictions.

"We eventually had it on the first day it rained in eight weeks, but it didn't dampen spirits.

"It was the first chance in 18 months for everyone to meet up with family and friends.

"Some people had not seen anyone apart from us, and carers, in all that time."

Entertainment on the day included a coconut shy, a giant Connect 4 game and a hook-a-duck stall.

Myra joked: "The hook-a-duck went a bit belly-up because the ducks couldn't float so we had to drain the paddling pool.

"But it really was an amazing day for everyone.

"We had a 91-year-old, Margaret Sneddon, who wanted a bouncy castle and she wanted to have a go on it too, so we'll get one another time.

"We'd just like to a say thank you to Bield for providing the funding for the event.

"It was great."