Billy and Margaret celebrate their big anniversary milestone in style...all while in lock-down

HAD someone whispered to Billy and Margaret Nolan on the day of their wedding that they would celebrate their Golden Anniversary in lock-down during a world pandemic while immaculately dressed enjoying fine dining in the conservatory of their own home, then eyes would surely have rolled skywards.

But in a show of positivity in the face of adversity, that is precisely what happened on Saturday last as the popular Tralee couple celebrated with their family in the background as they adhered to the social distancing protocols that have become such a part for every day life.

Like so many others of a similar age around the county, Billy and Margaret are currently self-isolating in order to limit the threat posed by COVID-19.

But while this can be a testing time, it can bring out the best in society and individuals as they resort to inventive ways to overcome the long and ardours hours spent in lock-down.

“Even though we were restricted we just decided to do something different,” Billy said .

“I suggested to Margaret the day before that we dress in our finest and set a table in the conservatory, which is what we did,” he added.

As we live in what are unprecedented times, Billy mentions that such an occasion would not only help raise the spirits of his family, but it would also make a moment their grandchildren would never forget.

Billy and Margaret’s children, William, Louise and Ciara, took turns at coming around the side of the house to catch a glimpse of the couple in their finery and to share messages of love and congratulations.

Their grandson, Adam, even played the guitar, while granddaughter, Kate, sang a song.

Saturday marked a double celebration for Margaret as it coincided with her birthday.

“We decided this is something we have to mark. There is no point in sitting around and being miserable. We wanted to convey a message of positivity to the kids and to the grandchildren by doing what we did,” Billy added.

Billy is confident that when all this passes, people will make the most of life again.

“The way you stop is one thing, but the way you start again is important. We need to start positively and with a buzz when all this is over,” he said.

(picture by Domnick Walsh). Tralee couple Billy and Margaret Nolan celebrating with a difference . They were 50-years married last weekend and were determined to celebrate even while in self-isolation.