Michael and Helen Hampton of Yate celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on Monday 27th December 2021 and were surprised with a visit from Chairman of Dodington Parish Council.

Cllr Chris Zapata visited to congratulate the couple and present flowers for the special occasion.Image of Parish Council Chairman wearing chain of office stood beside man and woman holding flowers

Michael and Helen met on holiday in Weymouth where they were caravanning.  Helen was away with a friend from Newport (Jen) and Michael was on holiday from Bristol with a friend (Dave).  Both Michael and Helen and their friends went on to marry in 1961 – and have remained lifelong friends.  They explained how sad it was when Dave died earlier in 2021 before he and Jen could celebrate their Diamond Anniversary.

Settling in the Chipping Sodbury / Yate area, they have made lots of friends and brought up their daughter, Geraldine (who still lives and works locally).  They have two granddaughters and two great grandchildren (twins, a boy and girl).

Michael started his working life in BAC accounting department and despite trying his hand at other jobs, he was working in insurance when he retired.  Helen was in retail, working locally in Boots of Yate for 20+ years.

When asked what their secret is to a long marriage, Geraldine felt it was the fact that they have supported each other through good times and tough times – they aren’t phased by anything that life throws at them – as the pandemic of last two years has proved.