Couple celebrate 65 years of marriage

A couple who met and wed in the heart of Hamilton have stayed true to their own hearts with 65 years of marriage.

Jack and Margaret Hutchison (both now 85), went to school together and, on leaving, went their separate ways, Margaret working in the Philips factory and Jack starting an apprenticeship as a toolmaker.

However, it was when they met up again at the Town Hall dancing that it all fell into place and romance blossomed.

The couple were married on July 22, 1953, by Reverend John Pollock at the South Parish Church, Cadzow Bridge, but when Jack finished his apprenticeship he was called up to the RAF on National Service and Margaret (née Wilson) was left alone with their first child Ellen.

Jack’s mother and father were a tower of strength for Margaret during his time away and, on leaving the RAF, when Jack came home it was like starting again.

He worked for Hoover for five years and then MEA for a further four years before spending the next 23 years with Honeywell. All this time Margaret was, as Jack said, his rock, tending to three children and him.

Margaret’s interests are dressmaking, crosswords and reading but her ultimate favourite is baking, and she loved baking for the Wednesday morning meeting at church, while Jack loved watching junior football and then played golf for many years before taking up bowls.

The couple had three of a family – Ellen, Jacqueline and James – and have two granddaughters and a grandson, as well as great-grandson Harris (3).

Jack and Margaret can now look back at their 65 years together and wonder where did all those years go but, in the meantime, they offer their recipe for a happy marriage to those now starting off on that road: faith, a sure foundation; trust and compassion towards one another; and never being afraid to say“i’m sorry”.

Visiting the couple to pass on their congratulations on achieving this remarkable milestone – known as a Blue Sapphire Anniversary – were South Lanarkshire Provost Ian Mcallan, who presented them with a card, framed scroll, whisky and flowers, and Deputy Lieutenant for Lanarkshire Janet Low, who handed over a card on behalf of the Queen.

Pictured are Jack and Margaret Hutchison, were congratulated on celebrating 65 years of marriage by Provost Ian Mcallan and Deputy Lieutenant Janet Low.