A WOKINGHAM couple celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary with a card from the King and Queen, as they share the secret to a long and happy marriage.

Tony and Norah Cleave, residents at RMBI Care Co. Home Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court in Wokingham, recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary with a royal card congratulating them on the milestone.

When asked about their love story, they reminisced on the moment they met on a dance floor in Liverpool.

Norah had never been to the city dance before and, on her first visit, she met the love of her life.

Tony, who was not used to the tradition of the Ladies’ Request, asked Norah to dance, rather than the other way around. He said: “She looked very attractive and caught my eye. I wanted to get a dance with her before anyone else did!"

“We chatted throughout the evening, and we talked about absolutely everything. We were made for each other from day one,” they both said.

Tony then offered to walk Norah to the bus stop where Norah’s parents and sister were, so Tony met the family within hours of meeting Norah.

“I was vetted… and passed the test!”, he laughed.

Only a few years later, Norah and her sister had a double wedding with their respective partners.

After their wedding, Norah and Tony had three children: eldest son, Adrian, followed by twins, Pamela and Nigel. “Our children have contributed to society, are well behaved, law-abiding and all have been successful in life. I could ask for no more,” Tony added.

When asked about the secret to a happy marriage, both agree that there is no magic solution.

The key, they say, is compromise and taking care of each other. “Doing as I’m told helps too”, Tony says jokingly, while Norah looked at him with a cheeky smile.

Sharon Fletcher, one of the Home’s Activities Coordinators, says: “Their bond is as strong today as it always has been, and everyone at Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court was delighted to be part of their special day. Norah and Tony are certainly delightful residents. They are so involved in the Home’s activities! They are a joy to have a round, and they’re always happy to try any task, event or creative work that we do at the Home.” 

The couple received a bouquet of flowers and well wishes from fellow residents, staff members and loved ones.

Tony and Norah were delighted with the card from King Charles and Queen Camilla, as the surprise made their day even more special.  

Home manager at Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh Court, Abigail Cranston, said: “We are so delighted to be able to share this special day with Norah and Tony. They were so proud to receive a card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla, celebrating their 72 years as a married couple. What an incredible achievement. Congratulations!”