KEN and Gwyneth Jones met during a storm at sea but that rocky start didn't stop them celebrating their golden wedding anniversary on New Year's Day - on dry land.

The couple from Rushwick, near Worcester, fell in love somewhat unconventionally during a church trip to Holland in 1952. A storm broke out while they were at sea, making Gwyneth so seasick she nearly fell out of the boat.

Ken saved her, and a lifelong romance was born.

"The boat was tossing and she was hanging over the side," said Ken, 79.

"I felt her feet leave the floor and I grabbed her belt and pulled her back onto the boat."

Despite the less than romantic start, the relationship blossomed and they have never looked back.

The couple, originally from South Wales, married in Sansome Walk Baptist Church in the Barbourne area of Worcester and enjoyed a honeymoon in London.

They have lived at their home in Christine Avenue for 50 years and had two daughters, Ruth and Meryl.

Ruth - who Ken described as a "brilliant girl" - died of a brain tumour two years ago.

They have three grandchildren: Timothy, aged five, eight-year-old Miriam and Samuel, aged 10.

Mr Jones, who has been a local Methodist preacher for 50 years, explained how their mutual love of the church had been a great strength within their marriage.

"We try to live to Christian principles," he said.

"We trust and love one another and share everything together."

Gwyneth described her husband's qualities.

"He's very considerate and never loses his temper," she said. "He's a very calming influence, is very charming and understanding."

The couple's love of travel has continued throughout the marriage and they ventured as far as Australia to celebrate the Millennium.

Mr Jones was a lecturer at the then Worcester Technical College while his wife was a primary school teacher.

To celebrate their retirement they walked along the Great Wall of China.

They marked the occasion with around 100 friends and family at the Bromwich Road Mission Free Church in St John's, Worcester.