Loving couple tell of a life full of whirlwind adventures
Audrey and Bobby celebrate 70 years of wedded bliss
An Uddingston couple who just celebrated their 70th anniversary together have set out their advice for achieving a life-long romance.
Audrey, 89, and Bobby Russell, 95, recently marked their platinum anniversary, having laid eyes on one and other at a friend’s house when they were in their teens.
The couple have had a lifetime of romance and attribute the success of their marriage down to a love of travelling and adventure – and being the best of friends through the good and bad times.
Audrey said: “Our relationship has been a whirlwind of adventures and excitement, from welcoming our wonderful children into the world, to living overseas and a passion for travelling – there’s never been a dull moment.
“Like everyone, we’ve had our moments throughout the years, but if you can withstand those tough times, the relationship grows from strength to strength.”
Audrey and Bobby have two children – Brian and Scott – who now have their own families.
The couple are now proud grandparents, to three grandchildren, and great-grandparents to four great-grandchildren.
Bobby said: “It’s been such a blessing to bring up our family and it makes you even prouder to see them go on to have their own children – who then go on to have their own children! I love having a big family, it makes all of the sleepless nights at the beginning really worthwhile.”
While recalling the ups and downs of their long relationship together, the couple offered some invaluable dating advice for young people sowing the seeds of their own romances.
Audrey continued: “It’s tough out there for young people these days. When Bobby and I began dating it was a much simpler time – none of these dating apps or websites to contend with.
“My advice to young people starting out and looking for ‘the one’ is to be kind, be patient and when you find your person, things will fall into place.
“It shouldn’t feel hard. Don’t get me wrong there will be hard times, but a solid foundation of friendship and common interest makes for a lifetime of adventure together.”
The happy couple have spent a lifetime making memories in San Francisco, Las Vegas and New York over the years, as well as indulging in the odd coach tour overseas.
Bobby now lives at Croftbank care home in Uddingston, which is part of the Renaissance Care Group, and Audrey visits her love all the time.