Laughter is key for Jean and Gerald
ACOUPLE from Banks have celebrated their sapphire anniversary – 65 years of marriage.
Jean and Gerald Rimmer, both 88, met when they were about 17 at a dance in their local hall, Banks Institute on Hoole Lane – now known as St Stephens.
They first locked eyes in 1946, meaning they’ve known each other for 71 years.
They went on to have three children and are now grandparents to seven.
The couple got married at Banks Methodist Chapel in 1952, the same year Elizabeth Taylor was married for a second time and Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne. They still visit the church every Sunday for mass.
Mr Rimmer started out as an apprentice joiner before serving two years’ National Service aged 18.
He then went on to be a Southport shrimper for the rest of his working life – a family tradition as both his father and grandfather had worked as shrimpers too.
Jean left school when she was 14 and went to work in a Birkdale factory that made blouses for Marks & Spencer. After having her children, she started running a market stall in Blackburn that sold flowers, vegetables and her husband’s shrimps.
Their daughter, Linda Gibbons, 63, said she wasn’t sure what the secret was to their long and happy marriage, but she added: “They worked together most of their married life, I suppose it’s just give and take. They always laughed a lot and we’re a close family.”
Mr Rimmer is a big fan of music having been involved with the Banks Brass Band for more than 40 years. He plays the trombone and is still president of the band.
During that time Mrs Rimmer was a member of the Women’s Institute.
The couple will celebrate their anniversary with a small family get-together.