A SHIRLEY couple who met at a friend’s house party in the 1940s celebrated their platinum anniversary on Boxing Day.
Don and Betty Bretherton, aged 92, opened a card from the Queen, and enjoyed a special meal with family, when they marked 70 years of marriage.
Their daughter, Karen Naylor, said: “It was love at first sight for Don, smitten by Betty’s dark hair, green eyes and gentle nature.
“They married at St Mary’s church, Acocks Green on December 26 1949, followed by a reception at Hartfield Crescent School, a venue where they had regularly enjoyed Saturday night dance bands. When the pianist they had booked for entertainment had too much to drink, Betty took over playing a few tunes herself for their guests!”
The newly-weds lived with Don’s Grandparents in Glastonbury Road, Yardley Wood and have since lived in Acocks Green, Northfield, Tile Cross, Solihull and Shirley.
Following Army National Service, Don was employed in occupations including bread roundsman, metal polisher, and quality inspector at Land Rover Solihull where he was also active in retirement, representing their seniors’ crown green bowling team and playing snooker at the social club.
Betty worked in school meals and housekeeping whilst raising their family, and has volunteering for SENSE charity shop, Shirley.
Karen adds: “Their fondest memories from the past 70 years include the births of their four children, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
“They said their secret to a long marriage is to work hard and to work together.”
