Seven decades of wedded bliss
ACOUPLE who met after becoming pen pals during World War II celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary a week after the Queen and Prince Philip.
Douglas and Jean Crockart, 91 and 88, of Marple, first saw each other only in a picture as he was serving with the Northern Highland Regiment.
But the first leave he had, Douglas visited Jean at her family home in Manchester. And his second leave they spent with his relatives in Dundee, where they got engaged.
They married at St Thomas’ Church, Ardwick Green, on November 29, nine days after the Royal wedding.
Jean, said: “My dad had sent my photo to a friend and Douglas saw it and got my address to write to me and sent his photo.
“At first I thought he’s not what I’m looking for as I wanted tall, dark and handsome and he was short with red hair. But I was attracted to his sense of humour and I still love him now and always will.
“I remember the wedding. I got tuppence to buy a wedding dress, my veil was given to me and neighbours clubbed together to make a cake out of rations. Those were the days.”
After living in Manchester, the couple settled in Stockport and are now at Rectory Court, on Church Lane.
They have enjoyed spending time hiking together and have one son, two daughters, seven grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
As well as getting a congratulatory telegram from the Queen they celebrated at their home with a party for friends and family. Jean said: “You enjoy doing things together and love being together. Being married for 70 years takes persistence and patience. You have to put up with each other and keep talking. You have each other so you need to make the most of it.”