A DROMARA couple are celebrating a remarkable 70 years of married life.
Reaching their Platinum Anniversary, Jack and Vera Kerr are as much in love now as when they were married in the middle of the Second World War.
The couple married at St. John’s Church in Dromara on July 21, 1943 and the wedding was followed by a party at Laganview, Vera’s old home in the village. The couple then headed to Dublin for a few days on honeymoon.
Jack (97) and Vera (93) also saw no reason to leave the village they loved after they got married, and have lived at the same house on Hillsborough Road for the past 70 years.
“We met in Dromara rectory,” said Jack recalling their courtship. “It was a chance meeting.
“It took me four years to ask her to marry me. I didn’t want to rush it you see, but I was lucky enough she didn’t run off.”
Jack worked as a teacher, eventually becoming principal at Edenderry Primary School, Banbridge. Vera raised their one and only son Derek.
In retirement, they have enjoyed spending time together in the house with family and getting out and about for a drive.
The couple recently celebrated the milestone few couples reach with a big family party hosted by Derek.
“It was nice to have all our friends and family there,” said Jack. “There were some friends I haven’t seen for 20 years so it was good to catch up.”
Jack said he and Vera had been good company for each other down the years but had no magic formula for a successful marriage.
“There’s no secret,” he said. “I’ve no advice to give. I think it’s about a bit of good luck as much as anything else.
“Vera and I have similar personalities and just seemed to be compatible.
“We take each day as it comes. We are the best of friends.”