Ref. 71717-31WHEN Jackie Dwyer was first introduced to her future husband as "our nipper" she didn't think she stood much chance of impressing him.

But on Saturday Jackie and husband Joe will be celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss.

The couple, of Lychett Way, Nythe, will enjoy a family meal at Blundson House Hotel on Saturday evening, followed by a huge garden party on Sunday that will be attended by almost 40 family members.

Jackie and Joe met in Cheltenham in 1952 when Jackie accompanied her older brother and his friend, Joe, to the races.

Jackie, 68, said: "I can remember how I ended up sitting next to Joe on the bus to the races.

"I would look at him then look away and would get all embarrassed.

"I was only 16 but I remember we ended up chatting away to each other."

Joe, 73, proposed two years later and the couple now have four children, 10 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and another two on the way.

Although Jackie and Joe first met and married in Cheltenham, they have lived in Swindon for 45 years and call it home.

They believe the key to married life is taking care of one another and sharing everything.