YOU might think the chances of finding another couple celebrating their golden wedding anniversary on the same day in a sleepy Preston village would be slim to none.

But for Jimmy and Ivy Robinson from Farington Moss, that's what happened as friends Marshall and Jean Ward celebrate their 50-year milestone on exactly the same day, August 18. Even more of a coincidence is that both couples are planning a Mediterranean cruise later in the year to mark the occasion!

Ivy, 68, lives in Moss Lane with husband Jimmy, 71. They met at one of the Saturday night dances held at Leyland Motors Social and Athletic Club in the 1940s.

She said: "I was 16 at the time, but we knew it was love and two years later we married."

The couple have seven children, 14 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Ivy said: "This year seems to be one for celebrations. Our youngest daughter Lindsay got married in May while our eldest son Graham has just reached his silver wedding anniversary.

"I first met Jean about 40 years ago through the Women's Institute and the Mother's Union group, and it just came out in conversation one day that we shared the same wedding anniversary," said Ivy.

Marshall and Jean Ward, both aged 74, met when they worked at County Hall in the architectural department.

Marshall said: "I will never forget our wedding day because all the family are Preston North End supporters, and we had to get married on a day when they were playing away so we wouldn't miss the action!"