BEMBRIDGE couple John and Dilys Newman are celebrating 50 years of marriage. A relationship that blossomed thanks to a chance meeting at a friend’s party in February 1968.

Within five months of meeting the happy pair announced their engagement in June 1968 and begun to plan their wedding ceremony, which took place on 18th January 1969.

When Mr and Mrs Newman reminisce about their courtship and first impressions of each other, they have fond memories of “feeling relaxed and at ease with each other”.

Their marriage would lead to the birth of a boy and girl and 3 grandchildren

The happy couple decided to acknowledge the special occasion with a gathering and cutting a cake at The Elms Nursing Home in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight, for all the staff, friends and residents to enjoy.

The couple have led fascinating lives. John progressed with a career in menswear, men’s accessories and clocks, watches and silverware in London. A new job opportunity meant the family embarked on a move to Northumberland, where their children were raised. John became self-employed in 1983 selling clocks, watches and silverware to the jewellery trade, finishing his career living in Tunbridge Wells.

Meanwhile, Mrs Newman trained as a nursery nurse and worked for Save the Children in London. She then secured a private position working for a couple in the British Embassy in Russia during the Cold War. Following her return, she trained as a secretary and worked in the Zambian High Commission but had to resign due to their move to Northumberland.

John was medically retired in 1993. After the death of Dilys’ parents, she and John moved to the Isle of Wight enjoyed many happy times together and a leisurely lifestyle. John became a resident at The Elms in January 2016 and the devotion is clear to see as Dilys visits him every day so they can spend quality time together.

The future continues to be promising as the couple enjoy seeing their three grandchildren.

John and Dilys have varied hobbies and interests; John was a very active sportsman, playing cricket, bowls and refereeing football matches. Dilys enjoys gardening, crosswords, reading and socialising with friends.

So, what is the secret to a long and happy marriage? Dilys and John have a simple answer: “be patient and support one another”.

General Manager Lesley Wise says: “The team and I were delighted to help Mr and Mrs Newman celebrate this very happy occasion. Life events like these are so special and we wish them many more happy years together.”