Margaret and Frank take a trip down memory lane

A Bothwell couple have returned to the church where their wedding took place to celebrate their Diamondwedding Anniversary.

Frank and Margaret Mclaughlan celebrated 60 years wed last week, but did not have to travel far to revisit their wedding venue – Bothwell Parish Church – as they still live in the village.

The couple first met in 1950 but it was another six years before they got engaged, with Frank completing a period of service with the army in the intervening period.

They married the following year (1957), with Frank returning to the army for a further nine years and rising to the rank of Captain during his service in transport regiments.

Upon leaving the army Frank went on to a new career as a North Sea helicopter controller for Chevron UK where he spent 16 years.

Away from the world of work he enjoys hockey and cricket and also flying gliders and light aircraft.

Margaret, meanwhile, spent 24 years as a receptionist with Tunnock’s and was heavily involved with Bothwell Parish Church, where she has been a member for a remarkable 76 years, and has served in various offices including Guild President.

Frank has been a member of the congregation for 67 years.

Their family has grown over the 60 years of their marriage and the couple have a son, a daughter, two granddaughters and a great granddaughter.

Provost of South Lanarkshire Ian Mcallan, Vice-lord Lieutenant John Brown and the Reverend Jim Gibson joined the Mclaughlan’s for their anniversary visit to Bothwell Parish Church.

The provost presented the couple with a card, flowers, a bottle of whisky and a scroll from South Lanarkshire Council.

They also received a card from the Queen.

Congratulations to the happy couple!