WWII couple mark 70th anniversary

The couple, from Wellington, met at a dance and are still devoted partners all these years later.

Vera, 90, and George, 96, marked their big day with a family celebration at their home.

The couple, who were married at Church Preen, near Much Wenlock, on June 16, 1945, got to know one another after meeting at a young farmers' dance in 1944.

They first lived in Church Preen but moved to Wellington 35 years ago.

Speaking about what has kept the two together for so long, Vera said: "We have been through a lot together and always had a lot of understanding.

"We have had a wonderful life. It is quite an achievement to reach 70 years."

The pair have a son, Bernard, as well as grandchildren Benjamin and Charlotte.

Vera said: "We are just going to enjoy celebrating by seeing our close family.

"I am reasonably well but George isn't so well." Both Vera and George played their parts in the war – George was in the Home Guard and Vera was in the Land Army.

George went on to work at the new and used agricultural machinery sales company Morris Corfield in Much Wenlock until he retired at the age of 70.

Vera said: "Since his retirement George has been working in our garden.

"It is a lovely garden and he has won a lot of prizes for his work."

She added: "We had a big celebration and a letter from the Queen when we celebrated 60 years, so I told everyone we didn't want a fuss this time."