Diamond wedding couple from Grantham say secret to long-lasting marriage is ‘commitment, understanding and patience’

A diamond couple from Grantham are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary on a cruise.

On September 21, 1963, William Johnson married Miriam Stevenson in Thurlby Chapel, near Bourne.

The pair met through friends in the village.

William, the eldest of three boys, was born at Dowsby in 1941 and Miriam, who has one younger brother, was born in 1942 in Thurlby.

William, aged 82, started work in Bourne and then Peterborough, eventually becoming a company director of a catering supply business.

Meanwhile, Miriam, 80, started work in the tax office in Peterborough and was later a secretary at Grantham Police Station.

They had several house moves including Buckden, Colsterworth and Harlaxton, before finally settling in Grantham for the last 40 years.

William played green bowls for many years and was president of Grantham Bowls Club.

Miriam can turn her hand to anything, she particularly enjoys sewing, knitting and loves her garden.

They have three children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

They are celebrating their diamond anniversary with a cruise on the Queen Victoria and a family meal.

When asked about their secret to a long-lasting marriage, the couple said: “Commitment, understanding and patience. We give each other help and support.”