Ref. 19495-20MARRIAGE FEATURE: Understanding and respect makes for a healthy marriage according to Ted and Ivy Poole.

Happily wed for 51 years, the couple, from Penhill, have never let go of their independence. Ivy, 74, said: "We have always kept our own interests. It's important to be yourself and stand on your own two feet."

They first met at a dance in Moredon Community Centre in 1947 and are still jiving today.

Ivy said: "We like jazz, blues and folk music. It's good to keep busy. We are both involved in workers' unions and, more recently, the anti-war coalition."

They both worked until retirement Ivy as a seamstress then telephonist and Ted as an aircraft fitter then learning resources officer.

So they have always shared paying the bills and never been materialistic.

Ivy said: "We lived in a council house and were content with what we could afford. I remember thinking it was amazing when we got a refrigerator."

Equality also applies with the housework.

Ted looks after the car, goes shopping and makes breakfast, while Ivy does the washing, dusting and prepares dinner.

"What I don't do, Ted does. He'll wash up without being asked," she added.

Ted's weaknesses are untidiness and dirtying every pan in the kitchen when he cooks.

He said: "My wife may think it's untidy, but I know where everything is.

"If we have an argument, it is always sorted out by compromise."

Ted and Ivy, who chose not to have children, still find time for romance.

Ivy said: "We may be a modern couple but Ted still walks on the outside of the pavement, and buys me flowers. Every woman loves red roses."