A Gateshead couple has toasted 70 years of happy marriage at a special party held at Alexandra House care home.
David and Janet Baird, who are both 89 and residents at the home, celebrated their landmark platinum anniversary with family, friends and their fellow residents, with entertainment provided by a local singer.
The Lord Mayor of Gateshead, Councillor Allison Ilderton-Thompson, also paid tribute to the Bairds when she visited the home to mark the occasion.
The happy couple met when they were both students at secondary school and their romance blossomed when David first asked Janet to dance while they attended a dancing group. To this day, the pair enjoys dancing together, especially when there are functions held at Alexandra House.
Janet was a ration shop worker throughout the war and later went on to enjoy a career in retail, whereas David was always interested in finance and invested in stocks and shares.
They have three children, Jennifer, Ellis and David, and six grandchildren who they are very close to.
Marie Bainbridge, Home Manager at Alexandra House, said: “David and Janet are a lovely couple and it is such an incredible achievement to celebrate 70 years of marriage – which is quite rare. They are both well-respected and fun to be around at Alexandra House and everyone here is proud to have been part of their celebrations.
“I would like to thank the Lord Mayor for attending and marking the joyous occasion and everyone who made David and Janet’s day so special.”
Located on Havelock Terrace, Alexandra House is part of Akari Care and provides residential care for 40 elderly residents.