Wiltshire couple celebrate 60 years after snowy honeymoon

David and Mary Cook met in 1960 when the pair were both working in shops on the high street in Cricklade.

Mary, who was 20 years old at the time, was working in the Co-operative while David, who was 22 years old, was operating as a painter and decorator.

The pair married three years later at the local St Sampson Parish Church after becoming close over the period following meeting.

David and Mary married in Cricklade in 1963. (Image: Dave Cox)

“We used to see each other and a friendship soon developed between us,” said Mary.

“Dave used to come into the shop often to buy his lunch.”

Now 83 and 80 years old respectively, David and Mary are reflecting on 60 years of marriage together.

“It has been up and down but we’ve weathered the storm and come out the other side,” she said.

“We have had three wonderful children who we cannot fault and together they have three wonderful partners too.”

David and Mary say that they have enjoyed the first 60 years of their marriage. (Image: Dave Cox)

The diamond duo also recalled their honeymoon which involved travelling to Newbury in a bubble car during a snowstorm.

“We were under around six feet of snow during the trip,” remarked David.

“It is the last time we can remember having that amount of heavy snow in the area but we didn’t have much time to be building snowmen!”

In the following six decades, the couple’s trips did get more exotic than the south west of England though, with holidays all across the world becoming a regular fixture.

“We have been to the United States doing Route 66 as well as Madeira and Switzerland,” recalled Mary.

“Most recently we went to St Petersburg in Russia just before the pandemic and it was brilliant, we’d go back tomorrow if we could!”

David and Mary still live in Cricklade to this day. (Image: Dave Cox)

60 years is no mean feat and this has been recognised by King Charles III who honoured the couple with a signed card.

“The card from the King came as a complete shock and we are proud as it is quite the achievement,” said Mary.

“We shall both be watching his coronation as we both recall watching Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation too all those years ago.”

The pair finally offered some advice to couples on how to ensure the longevity of their relationships.

“Just pull together as money isn’t everything and make sure you have a sense of humour,” said Mary.

“And make sure you know who’s the boss,” added David to Mary’s laughter.