AN island community's oldest resident has died just days after her 100th birthday.

Lily MacDougal, who was a celebrated resident of Islay, died on August 5 following a short illness.

Mrs MacDougal was born in the year the First World War broke out and was fourth youngest of a family of 10. She turned 100 on July 17.

The pensioner lived most of her life on Islay and was inspired by its scenery to paint and write poetry.

As a young woman she worked for a time in ­ Glasgow, selling household items from door to door, before returning to Islay to do the same there.

An accomplished piper, she played for the Queen when she visited Islay in August. The centenarian was called upon to officially open Islay's new £500,000 lifeboat station in June.

A 100th birthday party in her honour was to be attended by Lord Robertson, the former Defence Secretary and Nato secretary-general, and his wife Sandra, who are friends of the MacDougall family.

However, due to Mrs MacDougall's illness, a smaller party for family and friends was arranged instead.

Family friend Hugh Smith, an elder at the Round Church on the island, said: "Lily was a bright and colourful personality. She knew that life was for living and live it she did. And although she has now gone from our sight, she will live long in our memories.

"The island community extends its sympathy to her daughter Christine, grandson Gordon and family."