Peter and Ann McCullagh of Dykes Walk celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary on the 28th March and returned to the Kings Head Hotel in Darlington where they spent their first night together as man and wife.
This was organised by their Grandson Craig who also made sure the couple paid the same rate as 50 years ago – £3.85p with the same view from their bedroom.
Peter and Ann lived in the next street to each other in Darlington and attended the same youth club and local dance hall. It was at the Majestic that Peter asked to walk Ann home after the dance and it was from that point the relationship grew and they were married two years later.
Peter was a Fitter at North Road Railway shops, moving to Tallents in 1962 when they produced washing machines. Married in 1964 to Ann the couple moved to a new house in Shafto Way, now demolished.
Ann worked as a shop assistant, Paton & Baldwins. Leveys and Hector Grabhams. Peter ended his working life at Eatons retiring in 1992. In his early days he enjoyed basketball and football and then became a keen golfer reaching a handicap of 9. Even with a hip replacement he continues to play golf and is a member at the Ineos club.
Ann is a keen gardener and Peter is a talented artist producing work in oils and watercolour.
The couple have two daughters, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren all living in Newton Aycliffe. The family held a party at Burtree Inn and the celebrations carried on through the weekend to Mothering Sunday with everyone having a fabulous time.
Peter and Ann with the Mayor Barabara Clare who called with congratulations from the Town Council
