Walsall couple marks 60 years of marriage
A Walsall husband and wife are preparing to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary.
Hazel Gavin, 80, and her husband Brian, 83, from Willenhall, are marking their diamond wedding anniversary while in lockdown.
The couple met when Hazel was 16 and Brian was 18 at The Vale Picture House in Willenhall.
Brian previously worked as a painter and decorator and the couple have always stayed local to the area.
They were in a relationship for five years before getting married at Holy Trinity Church in Short Heath on June 4, 1955, at a ceremony with family and friends.
The pair never owned a car, instead preferring to cycle everywhere which helped them keep fit in their younger years.
Hazel and Brian went on to have four children and now also have seven grandchildren who have been supporting them as they isolate during lockdown.
Unfortunately, their plans to celebrate have been put on hold due to social distancing rules, however, the couple and some family members are hoping to have a socially distanced picnic in the garden to mark the milestone.
They are also awaiting a telegram from the Queen to celebrate the day.
Commenting on the secret to a long and happy marriage, Hazel said: "Being together with all the family is important, we are just a normal family.
"We have been through many ups and downs as everyone does but we have stuck by each other and done everything together.
"You have to stay together through thick and thin."
