Hampshire couple celebrate 70 years of marriage

Bert, 91, and Ivy, 88, White from Bishop’s Sutton, will be enjoying their platinum anniversary on Wednesday July 12.

Bert originally from East Molesey, London served with the Royal Navy during World War Two and was on mine sweepers.

The couple met during the war when Bert we was briefly stationed at Warnford when they were both at a dance in Ropley. Ivy was born in Bishop's Sutton where they both still live and they were married in St. Nicholas Church in the village in 1947. To afford a wedding outfit Bert and Ivy had been given ration coupons by friends. They honeymooned in London, seeing the sights and visited Bert’s step-parents.

At first the couple lived at Hobbs Close where they brought up four children, Brian, now 69, Lyn, 67, Heather 63 and Carol, 57. In 1969 Bert built a bungalow for the family in Water Lane, just 100 yards from their former home.

After the navy Bert worked as a wood machinist in and around Winchester, until he had an industrial accident in 1978, and he lost the sight in one eye. He then became a caretaker at West Downs School in Winchester and at King Alfred’s College.

After Bert’s accident Ivy worked at the Co-op in Alresford and was an assistant supervisor.

As well as their four children the Bert and Ivy now have 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Throughout their life Bert has enjoyed fishing and gardening and playing football when he was younger, and Ivy is still a member of Bishop's Sutton WI. They have enjoyed travelling to many countries including the USA, Spain, Cyprus, Crete, Austria, Norway and former Yugoslavia.

To celebrate their milestone anniversary they will be having an afternoon tea at their home with their children and some of their grandchildren.

When asked what the secret of a long and happy marriage was Ivy said: “It is enjoying your family, living within your means and not getting into debt. Always agreeing on things and not rowing, but if you ever disagree always make up.”