A DILTON Marsh couple are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary this weekend.
Maurice and Nora Wilkins got married 60 years ago in the village on 30th March 1959. The couple describe the day as a ‘traditional village wedding’, but the day got off to a bumpy start when the groom encountered a herd of cows on his way to the big day.
Speaking to White Horse News, Maurice said, “The 60 years has flashed by in an instant! It’s incredible how quickly time moves.
“We were together for about two years before we got married. The wedding was at Holy Trinity Church in Dilton Marsh on a Bank Holiday weekend – the sun was shining, with the occasional shower.
“But I was late for the wedding! I got mixed up in a herd of cows moving along the roads. The poor old vicar was waiting anxiously outside. Nora was watching the chaos from her home, she lived close to the church – she was a choir girl at the church.
“But I made it to the church eventually. The wedding was a modest affair, we couldn’t afford very much – cash was tight. The reception was held at the Memorial Hall – it was a traditional village wedding, quite a number of people turned out!”
About their secret to achieving 60 years of marriage, Maurice said, “Interminable patience is one, and obviously the imbedded responsibilities that come with the promises that were made in the wedding vows.”
Nora added, “Good sense of humour and get your nose to the grindstone – it wasn’t easy at times, but you need to keep working at your marriage.”
Maurice and Nora have three children; Hazel Grace, Patrick Wilkins and Nick Wilkins, who are planning something special for their parents. “I don’t know how we are celebrating,” said Maurice, “there is something highly secretive being planned!”
