A LOVE-struck Timperley couple have this marked 70 years of marriage with their platinum wedding anniversary, writes Ben Hayward.

Vincent, 93, and Teresa Collett, 89, of Fairywell Road were married at St Vincent’s Church, Altrincham, on March 1, St David’s Day 1945 and have spent their entire married life in the area.

The couple first met at a mutual friend’s wedding in 1942 before Vincent went to join the Royal Signals Regiment.

Teresa said: “Our honeymoon was three days in Colwyn Bay, it was exciting for us at the time!”

She added: “We didn’t have much money. In fact my sister was bridesmaid because she had a nice dress. We just picked daffodils to use for wedding flowers!”

Following his time in the army, Vincent has been an instrument engineer, an officer in the Home Guard and has worked with the labour unions.

He also represented the Labour Party as a Councillor on first Altrincham, then Trafford Council.

Teresa remembers: “I was so proud of him, but I did get a bit fed up of people coming to the door to complain about having rats in their cellar or whatever else!”

Between 1978 and 1987 Vincent held the position of Steward at Timperley Labour Club on Grange Avenue: “I was responsible for running the club and the bar, it kept me very busy!” He remembered.

Vincent retired from the club at the age of 65 and in the same year suffered two heart attacks: “I have to thank the staff at the Barrington Medical Centre in Altrincham for how well they look after him,” said Teresa: “They’ve kept him going for me.”

The couple have one son, Tony, and two granddaughters, Johanna and Katrina, with whom they quietly celebrated their anniversary.

“I think keeping busy and the fact that we have been so well looked after by our family is what has kept us so happy for so long.” Agree the couple: “It is important to give and take as well of course.”

Vincent said: “My only ambition now is to wake up and enjoy my day. I am looking forward to my hundreds!”

Teresa added: “To this day he has never gone to sleep without putting his hand on my face and telling me he loves me.”

Vincent smiled: “Give over Terri!”