Waltzing back to happiness

Twenty five friends and family members were in the Renaissance Room at Blackpool's famous Tower to see history repeat itself.

Former sailor Gus Rooney swept a 21-year-old Kathleen completely off her feet at the Tower Ballroom when he first laid eyes on her back in 1951, and the Rooneys could think of no better place to hold their Golden Wedding party.

Kathleen, from Abbotsford Road, Marton, told the Citizen: "I went dancing with a female friend and suddenly Gus appeared and asked me to dance under the ballroom clock. He was on leave from the Merchant Navy.

"We were married 18 months later by Father Hogan on a beautifully sunny day at St Kentigan's Church on Newton Drive.

"Gus is originally from Liverpool, but we settled here as I would never move from Blackpool. He also left the Merchant Navy because I told him I wouldn't marry him unless he did!

"I think we've stayed together because we have always considered each other, and there's been a lot of give and take. Also we always make up after an argument. We've had our ups and downs, but he's been my rock. Couples today don't work at it, really, and think they shouldn't argue -- but it's a good thing. The only reason we don't argue any more is because I haven't got the energy!

"I'll be 73 in July and Gus will be 72 in July, too, so we're both Leo's. He's my toy boy!"

Gus worked for British Gas on the Fylde Coast until he retired at 64, and the couple have five children and eight grandchildren who all still live in the area.

"It was a marvellous party," added Kathleen. "And I would like to thank all the staff at the Tower who made it such a wonderful day for us and our family and friends.

"Blackpool has changed a lot since we were married, though. I think it's gone down and I hardly go into town any more as I'm always frightened of being mugged. And I don't care for this Vegas idea much. It's okay if you're young, I suppose, but I'm a bit old-fashioned in my thinking."