Ken and Vera Pritchard celebrated the occasion with a family gathering at their home in Rhostyllen, near Wrexham, a large event considering the couple have six children, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

It hasn't always been an easy ride for the pair, with Ken, 83, retiring as a miner from Bersham Colliery in 1977 on health grounds and Vera, 79, having to take on extra work to make ends meet.

The pair were joined in matrimony at Chester Road register office and have spent their married life in Rhostyllen.

Vera said: "When he came to Rhostyllen he went down the mine for 30 years. He perforated his eardrum, and had a few accidents while he was down there.

"He finished work in 1977 and he was in Stanley Hospital after that. He's had serious problems. Every illness - you name it, he's had it. Even TB.

But I've tried to look after him well. I've done other jobs and helped out in different places like the local butchers."

Vera and Ken have both played an active part in their community - both have helped out at Bersham British Legion with Ken a former branch chairman.

The couple have six children, Kenny, Tony, Nigel, Wayne, Cheryl and Karen, as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Vera has no hestitation when asked the secret to a long, successful marriage.

"If you have a row, don't bother about it, just carry on!" she said.

What do you think the secret to wedded bliss is?

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