Couple hail exercise and wine for 70-year marriage

A couple who wed 70 years ago said patience, exercise and "a couple of glasses of wine" were key to a happy marriage.

Ron Ashpool, 93, and 91-year-old Nancy got engaged on the back seat of a bus after a day trip to London in 1954.

Mr Ashpool admitted his plan was to propose a week later on Christmas Day, but "like a fool" he let Mrs Ashpool try her engagement ring on - and she refused to take it off.

The parents of three said they felt "so lucky" as they threw a platinum wedding party at their sheltered accommodation in Luton on Wednesday.

The couple met when a 22-year-old Mr Ashpool asked Mrs Ashpool for a dance in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.

"He was a tall, handsome man with a lovely DA [haircut]," recalled Mrs Ashpool, who was 19 at the time.

The couple dated for two years before getting engaged, enjoying frequent visits to either the pub or a dance.

But their wedding day was nearly ruined when 1ft (0.3m) of snow fell the night before, blocking the roads into Harpenden.

Mr Ashpool, who worked a shift at his parents' pub in Luton on the morning of the big day, was almost stranded as a result.

Mick Ashpool, 61, the couple's youngest son, said: "Luckily, when my dad finished his shift an hour before his own wedding, they cleared the roads enough for him to get through to Harpenden and get there on time – just."

Mr and Mrs Ashpool were joined by their friends and family during the anniversary celebrations at their home in Bushmead.

They received a letter of congratulations from the King, having also been sent one by Queen Elizabeth II on their 60th anniversary.

Their other sons David, 67, and Tony, 65, said they felt "very proud" of their long and happy marriage.

David added: "They've been fantastic parents over the years and we've been very lucky."

The couple have proved popular at their accommodation, making friends and enjoying daily walks together.

Their neighbour, Pat Durley, said: "They're great fun, always lively and cheery and happy. It's been a privilege to know them."

Both Mr and Mrs Ashpool said the key to a long-lasting marriage was "working at it" no matter what.

"You've got to share things and not give up at the first hurdle," Mrs Ashpool said.

She added a "couple of glasses of wine at night" also helped her to feel healthy.

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