Ref. 25822-22A COUPLE who fell in love at first sight were today celebrating 60 years of marriage.

Because Margaret and John Tudball married at the height of World War II, a traditional lavish church ceremony was out of the question.

Instead, they went to a register office in Pontypridd both Margaret, 77, and John, 83, are originally from South Wales.

Sadly, most of the pictures of their wedding were destroyed in a burglary some years ago, but they still have their memories,

The couple now live in Mulberry Grove, Rodbourne Cheney and first met at a dance. Margaret recalled: "We just saw each other and it was love at first sight."

In the early years of their marriage John worked as a coalminer at Cambrian pit in Tonypandy, while Margaret was a machinist in a tailoring factory.

In 1949 the couple moved to Stevenage in Hertfordshire, and then to Swindon in 1970.

John spent the remainder of his career at Swindon electronics factory firm Square D.

Margaret worked on the assembly line at the same company.

Both were also devoted to volunteer work for the WRVS, distributing meals on wheels.

Margaret and John have a son, Derick, 49, who is married to Elaine, and have two grandsons, a great grandson and a great granddaughter.

After so many years together, the couple believe they know exactly what it takes to have a long and happy marriage. Margaret said: "The most important thing is always saying 'I love you'."

"You should also be able to say you're sorry and to take the bad with the good."

The couple plan to celebrate their anniversary with family and friends at home on Saturday, with a special meal at the Blunsdon House Hotel to follow.