CHIPPENHAM pensioners Robert and Betty Smith reached the landmark of 70 years of marriage on Tuesday after an eventful life together.

The couple, who live on Brinkworth Close, had a family gathering in Freshford on Sunday to celebrate their platinum anniversary and decided to have a relaxing day at home on Tuesday.

Robert, 91, and Betty, 94, have two children, Diana and Sheila, three grandchildren, Samantha, Andrew and Lily, and two great-grandchildren, James and Jesse.

The pair met at a dance night at The Neeld Hall, Chippenham, and have been together ever since.

At this time, Robert was doing national service as aircrew at Hullavington Airfield and the pair were married at St Mary’s Church on October 22 1949.

Four years later, their first child, Sheila, was born and their second, Diana, came in 1958.

When asked about the secret to a long marriage, Betty said: “We’ve always worked through things together.”

Robert said: “It’s always been important that we’ve just enjoyed each other’s company, while also remaining active.

“We’ve been to Lacock so many times we basically know it inside out.”

Their daughter Diana added: “You also have to have a lot of patience!”

The couple moved to Brinkworth Close in 1985, where they became first owners of the newly built house.

They enjoy living in Chippenham and are big fans of the surrounding area.

Betty now struggles to get out and about but enjoyed spending time with her husband at local National Trust places, as well as their annual trip to Longleat with the family.

When they were younger, the Smiths spent a lot of time walking through the grounds and gardens of Bowood House, being particularly fond of the estate as Betty’s father worked as a gamekeeper there for many years.

Robert is originally from Wishaw, Scotland, and after his national service worked for the electricity board.

Betty worked in a munitions factory during the Second World War and then went on to be a telephonist for Chippenham Borough Council.