We lived in Wymondham from 1967-1974 and my sister was born at home at Norwich Common. My parents were very involved in Wymondham Methodist Church - Dad was a local preacher and Mum directed kids shows and plays. Mum also ran the over 60's choir.

This year they are celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary with family and friends and raising money for CRUK.

Dad has survived a stroke, cancer and a broken femur and is now 93 and still going strong. Mum is 86 and still running a choir inspired by her choir in Wymondham. They are both from Norfolk - Dad was born in Norwich, his Dad worked for Colman's and his Mum was a housewife to Dad and his 3 sisters. Mum has happy memories of her parents running a hotel in Hunstanton during the war, where she enjoyed a happy and fun life by the sea with her brother Richard. Sadly Richard died at the age of 26 from cancer.

I was born in St. Faith's in 1964 and Ruth was born in Wymondham in 1967. Mum took a break from teaching for 10 years while she was bringing us up. Dad spent some time in the RAF and he and Mum were penfriends for a time before they became boyfriend and girlfriend. They used to cycle to meet up in the early days; apparently when they had their first kiss, Dad cycled completely the wrong way home!

Ruth and I had a happy childhood with music, horse riding, tap and ballet and church activities - there were summer activities including having a dingy on the river, swimming and picnic, as well as camping holidays.

Mum and Dad loved travelling and between them have visited China, America, France, Italy, Switzerland, Hungary and Sweden. Dad loved picture framing, art, preaching in church, reading and "learning something new every day". Mum loved classical music and played the piano, and trumpet. She completed her Open University degree in her 50's as well as Grade 6 on the trumpet. She has used her musical, counselling and organisation skills to inspire and encourage numerous students and adults.

She worked at Thetford Grammar School for over 40 years until she was 80!

So what’s the secret to a successful marriage? They believe: respect, patience, encouragement, their Christian faith, and lots of love and gratitude.