Ross-on-Wye couple, Gwyn and Peggy Hawker, held a quiet but very special celebration at The Chase Hotel on Sunday, August 12th, marking an impressive 70 years of marriage. Since their move to Ross in 1986, they have been in the perfect place for a long and full retirement.

Both hailing from South Wales, they moved to Birmingham in their early twenties to find their first jobs. Gwyn became an electrical engineer, while Peggy became a primary school teacher. They met at the Welsh Club there.

Peggy says: “I remember the first time he walked in, I thought to myself ‘now there’s someone I’d like to get to know.’”

Their wedding on August 14th, 1948, was the beginning of a long and happy marriage. Its harmony was only threatened when Gwyn was teaching Peggy to drive.

They first got to know Ross-on-Wye as a stopping point on their journeys back to Wales. Loving its characterful welcome, Ross became the obvious choice for their later years.

They quickly became active in local community life. Peggy joined the Women’s Institute, regularly filing reports on their meetings for the Ross Gazette, later becoming Joint President. Gwyn was thoroughly embedded in the Golf Club, taking on the position of Seniors’ Treasurer and later Seniors’ Captain.

Although life at 93 means they have had to slow down slightly, their family of three children, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren ensures their life remains full and lively. Their daughter, Dilys, says: “We are very proud of Mum and Dad. They have been such a wonderful example to us all – showing us how to be loving and caring.”

After some reflection, Gwyn sums up the secret of successful marriage: “It is simply finding out your wife’s likes, and doing your very best to fulfil them.”

Their daughters said:?“This seems a good summary of the generous love that has marked their 70 years together.