East Preston couple celebrate Valentine’s Day diamond wedding

But Thursday (February 14) proved to be even more memorable as they celebrated their diamond wedding.

And the secret for 60 years of married life – faith, humour and an abundance of patience.

“We’ve certainly had our fair share of ups and downs,” admitted Margaret, 83, “but I think that’s the same with every married couple. Thankfully, it’s never anything major.”

The couple, who received a letter from the Queen congratulating them on their milestone, have lived at their home in Golden Avenue for almost 30 years.

Margaret, the former superintendent physiotherapist in charge of the Zachary Merton Hospital, in Rustington, said she and Ron, 86, were keen churchgoers, worshipping at St Margaret’s Church, in Angmering, every week.

She said that on their wedding day, Ron even gave her a small prayer book, which she had treasured ever since.

And faith is something Ron certainly agrees is a key ingredient to their impressive marital milestone.

He met his wife-to-be following a horrific motorcycle crash in Haywards Heath, in 1949, which left him hospitalised for about six months.

Ron, a retired solider, said Margaret was his physiotherapist at Brighton General Hospital and he was instantly attracted to her.

Looking back, he said: “To meet her must have been divine intervention, I’m sure.”

The pair tied the knot on February 14, 1953, at St Mark’s Church, in Brighton.

They have three children and five grandchildren.