A COUPLE who share a love of family and friends are celebrating 60 years of marriage.

John and Jackie Smurthwaite, who live in Norton, were married on February 28, 1963.

The couple met at a dance at the Milton Rooms in Malton but it was one of John's friends that first asked Jackie out.

John, 80, who originally comes from York, said: "Me and four pals used to go to different dances at villages and towns around the area each week.

"On this particular Saturday we went to the Milton Rooms and my best friend asked Jackie out on a date.

"The next week he told me she was coming through to York from Malton but he had decided not to go and meet her so sent me to explain and that was it."

The couple were married the following year at Clifton Church in York and initially lived with Jackie's mother and stepfather in Norton.

Jackie, 77, worked in the offices at Bright Steels while John took on a variety of jobs including potato picking while also working as a part-time bookmaker.

They later moved to rented accommodation in Mill Street and following a lucky Pools win in 1977 were able to buy their first house in Glenmore Drive.

A later move to Broughton enabled daughters Joanne and Karen to have ponies and later open space for their four grandchildren, before moving back to Norton five years ago.

Over the years John became a successful bookmaker with William Hill travelling across the country, while Jackie worked at the Milton Cafe, Trio ladieswear and M & Co in Malton before they both retired.

John love of racing continues, with fair weather trips to the races and a share in one of Brian Ellison's horses.

The couple have enjoyed holidays around the world including Las Vegas and Barbados as well as their first cruise around the Mediterranean last year.

Jackie said Tenerife was one of their favourite places with yearly trips each February.

"We have made lots of friends while out there and would arrange to go out there at the same time to meet up," she added.

The couple, who now also have two great-grandchildren with another on the way said they planned to celebrate their anniversary with a meal and family holiday later in the year.

Along with cards from family and friends Jackie and John received a card from the King and Queen Consort to mark their special day.

And the secret for 60 years of marriage? “Patience,” said Jackie, “And our family.”

“We have both shared a love of our daughters, grandchildren and now grandchildren, we give us so much pleasure in life.”