A COUPLE who were childhood sweethearts have celebrated 65 years of marriage.

Eileen and Bert Huggins, of Holme-on-Spalding Moor, celebrated their wedding anniversary on Monday.

Eileen and Bert met in 1942 while living in neighbouring villages in East Sussex when Eileen was 13 and Bert 15. They continued to “court” until Bert was called up to serve with the Army of Occupation in Germany.

During Bert’s time abroad, Eileen moved to York with her parents since her father was by that time stationed there, having served with the Armed Forces since 1939. But they married in 1947 on Bert’s return from Germany and set up home in York on his demobilisation a year later.

They lived in York until 1968 and then moved away to follow successful business careers up to their retirements in 1989.

Their only child, Peter, was born in York and educated at various schools including Nunthorpe Grammar School before pursuing a career in electronics. 

Sadly, Peter died in 2001 having suffered from cancer. This tragic event led to their decision to return to Yorkshire where their married life had begun.

Happily, they have an adored granddaughter, Melanie, who was married two years ago.

They have lived in Holme-on-Spalding Moor for the last ten years and although not in the best of health remain content and look after each other with the the help of many friends and neighbours. The couple celebrated their lifetime of love and companionship with a buffet party at home.