A HAMPSHIRE couple are celebrating a milestone 70 years of marriage.

Bert, White, 91, and his wife Ivy, 88, enjoyed an afternoon tea with their children and some of their grandchildren.

The couple met at a dance during the Second World War when Bert was briefly stationed at Warnford.

Ivy was born in Bishop’s Sutton where they both still live and they were married in St Nicholas Church in the village in 1947.

They honeymooned in London, seeing the sights and visited Bert’s step-parents.

At first the couple lived at Hobbs Close where they brought up four children, Brian, now 69, Lyn, 67, Heather 63 and Carol, 57.

In 1969 Bert built a bungalow for the family in Water Lane, just 100 yards from their former home.

Bert worked as a wood machinist in and around Winchester, until he had an industrial accident in 1978, and lost the sight in one eye.

He then became a caretaker at West Down School in Winchester and at King Alfred’s College, which he did until he retired.

After Bert’s accident Ivy worked at the Co-Op in Alresford and was an assistant supervisor.

As well as their four children they now have 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

When asked what the secret of a long and happy marriage was, Ivy said: “It is enjoying your family, living within your means and not getting into debt. Always agreeing on things and not rowing, but if you ever disagree always make up.”