Congratulations!

A Hamilton couple have celebrated a phenomenal milestone – 70 years of marriage.

Childhood sweethearts Margaret and Mark Riley, of Silvertonhill, marked their platinum anniversary on August 7 at a special celebration with family. The couple met when they were aged just 16. Mark, now 91, was in the Boys’ Brigade and Margaret (90) was a Girl Guides ranger. They were later married at St Margaret’s Church in Knightswood back in August 1950.

With Mark’s civil service job moving them around for a few years, they finally settled in Sycamore Drive, Hamilton, in 1960 with their three children Alison, Margaret and Graham.

Margaret took up a role at Bairds store and later within the accounts department there.

As well as spending time with family, which includes five granddaughters and six great grandchildren, over the years the couple have spent many a fun time abroad in Benidorm, Tenerife, Greece and more.

They also enjoy yearly breaks to their favourite destinations of Blackpool and Millport.

Both keen bowlers, they are very well known members of Hamilton Bowling Club.

Their platinum anniversary celebration at daughter Margaret’s home in Cambuslang was extra-special for the couple with a surprise visit from their niece Christine all the way from Wales.

Margaret believes the success to their long, happy marriage is to “laugh together and enjoy a good holiday”.

She also credits having grandchildren and great grandchildren in helping to keep them young.

Mark joked: “I think the secret to a happy marriage is not to argue too much and let your wife think she’s always right!”