A CIRENCESTER couple who met at a local dance in Hornchurch, Essex, following an argument about space for dancing or table tennis, have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this week.

Roy, 87 and Edna Harman, 86, married on September 26 1953 and lived in Upminster until they retired to Cirencester two years ago.

Daughter Sandra Dukes said: “They met at a local youth club and they were arguing over space on the floor - Dad wanted it for table tennis and Mum wanted it for dancing, Mum won!”

The couple had a flat in Cirencester which they bought so they could visit their daughter and grandchildren. Edna said: “We finally retired here because we wanted to be close to Sandra.”

She recalls: “We got engaged and had an opportunity to buy a new bungalow. We were saving up for a deposit and didn’t spend much money on the wedding. Roy got a new suit and I borrowed everything apart from the bouquet.”

Initially in the Royal Air Force, Roy then worked in the city as a ‘Man from the Pru’.

They have two children, Robin, who now lives in Australia, and Sandra, who lives in Cirencester and is well known as Musical Director for the Corinium Players Guitar. They have six grandchildren.

Edna worked in a variety of jobs including Lollipop Lady and for many years as secretary to the Editor of the Romford Observer.

Roy said: “I worked at the Prudential and did a lot of international travel with my job. Edna would come with me.”

This closeness is, he believes, on of the keys to their long and happy marriage. “We have always kept together and enjoy each other’s company,” he said.

They have thrown themselves into retired life in Cirencester and are members of the U3A and Probus. Both enjoy going to the theatre and have just returned from seeing their grandson Peter who is preforming in Twelfth Night in London. “We are so proud of all our grand children,” Edna said.

Sandra said: “Mum and Dad are the most generous, kind parents you could ever wish for. Having grown up and lived in an area that survived the punishment of the war they always appreciate the importance of love and happiness.”

They will have a few small parties to mark the special day, but may postpone major celebration until after Roy’s hip replacement operation in the next few week’s.

“Edna has always been there to help me when I needed it,” Roy said.