Ref. 25963-76MARRIAGE FEATURE: Marriage has changed beyond recognition over the years. During the 1950s women were expected to stay at home and raise children while men went out to work. Today the role of husband and wife are less clearly defined. VICTORIA TAGG spoke to couples of all ages to find the true picture

Kate and Richard Law believe variety is the recipe for a happy marriage. So they make a point of eating out as often as possible.

Richard, 25, said: "We probably eat out about four nights a week and know most take-away menus off by heart."

Besides enjoying the change of cuisine, it also saves arguments about who does the washing up their kitchen isn't big enough for a dishwasher.

The couple, who live in Abbey Fields, have been together since they were teenagers. In fact the relationship is their first and only brush with romance.

Richard said: "Although we have been together for ages, I am always discovering new things about Kate. She is full of surprises and that's what I love about her."

They wed two months ago but still see each other as best mates. Being relaxed, totally open and always game for a laugh has strengthened their partnership.

To prepare them for married life, Kate and Richard went on a marriage prep course.

"It involved spending lots of time together and talking," he said.

"The workshops encourage you to listen more. They were quite helpful, but marriage is a constant learning curve."

No-one wears the trousers in their relationship they wear what they like. And the same freedom applies to hairstyles.

Richard, a project manager, said: "I like long hair. Once Kate had her hair cut shorter than mine and that was fine. It's her hair and I have no control over it."

As for putting a ribbon in her hair to please her husband, Kate, 22, who works as an administrator, laughed at the suggestion.

She said: "I don't really do things like that. If I really wanted to cheer him up, I might make a lamb roast."

Then again, they are more likely to be found wining and dining at one of their favourite haunts, Marsh Farm Hotel in Wootton Bassett.

One chore they can't escape is housework, so this task is meticulously shared.

Kate said: "We have a system I do the top of the house and he does the bottom."

When asked which area is tidier, they both nominate their domains.

In spite of having the occasional 'door slammer' domestic, Richard and Kate are confident about their future together.

Richard said: "Marriage takes a lot of patience but I don't think we could live with anyone else."