A love of the great outdoors

Iris and Arthur Simmonds, of Princes Avenue, have held two parties to mark their diamond wedding anniversary and both boast more than half a century of happy memories.

The couple met at the Worcester Rambling Club in 1938 and after becoming firm friends they began courting and enjoyed a wartime wedding on June 6, 1942.

iris, aged 81, said: "I had to use my ration coupons for my dress, which was pale primrose and velvet.

"It was a small wedding in West Malvern and many family members were away fighting in the Second World War. We enjoyed a day walking in the Cotswolds for our honeymoon," she added.

The couple purchased their first home in Burrish Street and fortunately were not separated by the war because Arthur was needed at Mecco, in Worcester, where he worked as a cost accountant.

Arthur and Iris went on to have three children and now have seven grandchildren - all boys.

Their passion for the countryside has continued, although ill health means they can now longer go walking.

Ninety-year-old Arthur, who is Droitwich born and bred, has just returned from a five month hospital stay after breaking his hip on New Year's Eve.

The keen birdwatcher became involved in voluntary work when he retired in 1977 and devoted much of his time helping the MIND charity.

Iris has a few words of wisdom for young couples planning to marry.

"Make sure you start off as great friends - friendship is very special and very important."