Pat and Merle celebrate 50 golden years

Their first child arrived soon after but sadly died soon after birth but they were soon blessed with their first daughter Valerie, followed by Diane, Tony, Barry and Patrick,making their family complete.

Pat worked for 34 years as a train conductor for British Rail and Merle worked as a children's nanny for a doctor in Bexhill and then worked for various local businesses including House of Holland, Seeboard and Comet.

Both are now retired and have lived in their current home in Hillyglen, Hastings since 1985.

One of their fondest memories was when they won a competition to meet Frank Sinatra in 1975 when he played at The Royal Albert Hall.

They both are keen gardeners and still know how to rock 'n' roll dance, to the envy of others.

Having five children has resulted in 15 grandchildren and one special great grandson, Chase, born in 2007.

To celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary they are holding a special tea at the Grand Hotel in Eastbourne where Merle worked when she was 14, followed a week later by a special party for family and friends.