A SOUTHAMPTON couple who became an item at a 16th birthday party are celebrating 60 years of marriage.
Sue, 81, and Brian Shergold, 82, who live in Calmore, married on March 24 1962, four years after that fateful birthday party.
When they met, Sue was 16 at the time and Brian was 17.
The pair enjoy going "overboard" for celebrations including birthdays and anniversaries but are looking forward to a more relaxed Diamond Anniversary celebration.
Sue said: "I did not expect to be married for this long at all.
"It’s not something you think about really, but it’s a great place to be.
"We have always had celebrations for birthdays, anniversaries, and events like that and we have always gone overboard.
"This time, because it’s difficult for people money-wise and getting together, I said let’s not bother. But we are going to be taken care of which is nice."
When asked about what their secret to a long marriage is, Sue said: "We have got an understanding of one another.
"Brian is a very good husband and he provided for us as a family, and I have reciprocated that.
"It’s been a lovely marriage."
For Sue, her favourite part of those 60 years spent with Brian is all the adventures the pair have been on together.
She said: "We had some lovely holidays together.
"At the moment, it’s out of the question, so we are looking back on the lovely holidays we have had together.
"We like going where the sunshine is. There are lots of things we wish we could go back and do but we have got the memories and we are happy enough with that."
The sun may not be shining in Southampton right now, but Mr and Mrs Shergold are quite content with their regular trips to Costa.
Sue said: "We go to Costa quite regularly and see people like us, sitting together and talking.
"I said to Brian how nice it is for people to be together and chatting. I really recommend doing that in old age.
"Cake is very much my secret, and I have to smuggle some for myself!"
The couple's daughter Jenna Shergold thinks her parents' milestone is "an amazing achievement."
The 52-year-old from Hedge End said: "It’s an absolutely amazing achievement.
"I think it’s incredible and I am very proud.
"They have got a different attitude to what people have these days. Both have that commitment and work through everything."
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