Rosemary returns for a birthday bash

However, in the case of a Ballintoy woman there was a more novel reason.

Rosemary McAlister, part of a well-known and respected family in the area, returned five weeks ago to celebrate all the birthdays of her siblings - and there are seven of them!

It was a kind and thoughtful gesture by Rosemary and one which was greatly appreciated by the family.

Not only did she celebrate the birthdays, but she also made a point of staying with each of her brothers and sisters during the enjoyable time she spent in the North Antrim area.

Rosemary’s sister, Ellie, who works in both Dalriada Hospital and Raythmoyle Centre, told the Times: “Obviously it’s not possible for Rosemary to return for birthdays so she decided to lump them all together so to speak and celebrate them at one time.

“It was a good idea and it turned out to be a real celebration which I just about kept up with.”

Rosemary lives in Sydney and who has now retired as a nurse enjoyed a farewell do at The Fullerton Arms and left last Thursday.

Ellie revealed that all of her family had visited Rosemary in Australia but she hadn’t yet had the pleasure.

“It’s something I’ll have to do sometime soon,” she added.