Ron Ashpool, 93 and Nancy, 91 got engaged on the back seat of a bus after a day trip to London in 1954.
Ron admitted his plan was to propose a week later on Christmas Day, but “like a fool” he let Nancy try on her engagement ring – and she refused to take it off.
They met when a 22-year-old Ron asked Nancy for a dance in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.
Nancy recalls “He was a tall, handsome man with a lovely DA [haircut]”.
Dating for two years before getting engaged they enjoyed frequent visits to either the pub or a dance. But their wedding day was nearly ruined when a foot of snow fell the night before, blocking the roads into Harpenden and nearly rendering Ron stranded.
Ron and Nancy were joined by their friends and family for a platinum wedding anniversary party at the Court. Their three children reflected on how lucky they have been to have such fantastic parents and are very proud of their long and happy marriage.
A letter of congratulations was received from the King, having also been sent one by Queen Elizabeth II on their 60th anniversary.
Ron and Nancy believe the key to a long lasting marriage is “working at it no matter what. You have got to share things and not give up at the first hurdle”. Nancy added: “A couple of glasses of wine at night also helped”.
