A COUPLE who were separated for more than two years during the Second World War, but managed to keep their romance alive with love letters, today celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.

Kathleen and Alfred Broom were just two of millions of people parted through those dark war years, in a world so different from the internet age of today.

Alfred was a private and then corporal with Seventh Btn the Worcestershire Regiment.

He said that they were unable to enjoy a honeymoon, following their wedding at St George's Church, in Sansome Place, which was a modest affair due to rationing at the time.

But they have managed to make up for it since, enjoying holidays to destinations all over the world.

"We've had a honeymoon ever since," said the 81-year-old, of Droitwich Road, near Perdiswell.

He believes that the secret of their successful marriage was down to having a good argument.

"We've never had one single argument, but a few thousand of them," he added.

"But that clears the air."

A few months after they met, in 1943, the couple was separated for more than two years, while Alfred served in India.

They were finally reunited when the world was back at peace in November 1945.

Alfred said that his 78-year-old wife, who lives in a Shrubbery Avenue nursing home, near the city centre, was good at everything she undertook.

Kathleen worked as a machinist during the war and then helped her husband on their smallholding based near Evesham. Alfred also worked, part-time as a gardening contractor.

The couple have three children, 58-year-old Valerie, of Northampton, Alan, 55 and Rosemary, aged 51, both of Worcester.

They also have four grandchildren, aged between 23 and 38, and a great grandchild, eight-year-old Jacob.

They will celebrate the special occasion with family.