Davenham couple celebrate 65th wedding anniversary

Howard and Barbara Forster, of Davenham, married when they were 23 and have been together ever since.

The couple, who have two sons - Nigel and Paul - and one grandson Oliver, have filled their time with music and dancing, as well as making happy memories with family and friends.

The family visited their home on June 28 to celebrate their Blue Sapphire wedding anniversary.

Son Paul said: "It's absolutely amazing. In this day and age, a lot of people are getting divorced so it's quite an achievement.

"A lot has happened in those 65 years. When they were born in 1935, there were no jet planes, it's amazing what's changed in that time.

"They've had a really good life and done lots of stuff. Sixty-five years is amazing.

Howard and Barbara on holida (Image: Paul Forster)

"There'll be very few people who have been married that long. They met at 16 so they've been together for 72 years.

"They've been such a big part of each other's lives and probably only spent a couple of nights apart."

Howard, aged 88, revealed he had met Barbara, also 88, at a dancing school in Northwich.

He said: "We used to have good friends and go out dancing a lot. Our early life, in the evenings, was spent dancing and we enjoyed crown green bowls."

Barbara in her younger days (Image: Paul Forster)

Paul added: "After a few drinks they always wanted to get up and do a bit of dancing - you couldn't get them off the dancefloor.

"Even though they were married and done things together, they've still been able to keep up with some of the hobbies they enjoyed individually as well.

"They'd always entertain at home and have friends round. I remember as kid they would be playing music and singing all night.

Howard in his younger days (Image: Paul Forster)

"It was great. We were brought up in Davenham, where they still live. We've had great times with them over the years, and had nice holidays each year.

"They've been good parents."