CHILDHOOD friendship blossomed into love for golden wedding couple Jim and Nellie Gibson .

The sweethearts, who are celebrating their anniversary today, first met when Nellie, 72, lived in Elizabeth Street, Darwen, and her husband-to-be round the corner in Tythebarn Street.

Jim, 74, served as a corporal in India during The Second World War and a month after he returned from battle he asked for Nellie's hand in marriage.

Fifty years on the couple, who have no children, credit their happy life together to having a good sense of humour.

Nellie said: "We've had our ups and downs like anybody else put we always pull through."

Friends and fellow residents at Hindle Court will join them for a party in the day room today.

Jim's mother Martha Aspden will receive an extra special toast because she is celebrating having reached the ripe old age of 93!

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