A COUNTY Durham couple who met on a mystery blind date has celebrated their Diamond wedding anniversary today (March 10) after 60 happy years of marriage.
Gwen, 81, and Alan Blenkarn, 84, who live in Bishop Auckland, first met in Butterknowle on Friday, June 13, 1958, on a blind date – and sparks flew at first sight.
Throughout their happy years, the best part of their 60 years is having their only child, their daughter Susan and their wedding day at St Mary’s, Cockfield, in 1962.
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After celebrating every single year together since 1958, Mr and Mrs Blenkarn have marked each milestone with holidays to Scotland, cruises, and other adventures across the globe.
Despite wanting to celebrate today’s Diamond wedding anniversary, they haven’t been able to meet up with family and friends, due to Alan unfortunately having poor health and only just getting out of hospital to celebrate their special day.
On celebrating 60 years, Mrs Blenkarn said: “We’ve had many years of happy marriage, there’s been no bad parts and we’ve enjoyed a lot of nice holidays, a lovely life and had some special memories together, as well as with family and friends.
Here's some pictures of the happy couple:
Pictures: SARAH CALDECOTT.
“Alan does what he’s told. I’m kidding – it’s all about give and take and compromise and that’s the secret to a happy marriage.”
Now that the happy couple are still going strong 60 years on – they plan to celebrate with family and friends in three weeks’ time when Alan is feeling better.
Mrs Blenkarn added: “Hopefully we’ll be able to celebrate soon and make the most of our Diamond wedding anniversary.
“We’ve lived in Bishop Auckland our whole life and have lived here happily together since we got married in 62’.”
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