Bolton couple's secret to 60 long and happy years of marriage

David and Christine Maguire, from Tonge Fold, first met during a trip to the Isle of Man through groups of friends in 1961.

David's friends told him to let the 'toss a coin' decide whether he would ask Christine to step out with him -  and the rest is history.

He said: “I think I chose right.

“I would not swap her for anything.

“Over the years with the family, we have always done everything together.

“Since I met her, I have not wanted anyone else.”

Family wedding with beloved daughter Linda in the purple with parents David and Christine, and her siblings (Image: Public)

By 1962 they were engaged, and married on July 10, 1963, at Harwood Parish Church.

When asked what their secret was Christine and David, both said it was about "a bit of give and take".

Christine said: “I can’t really believe it, it’s passed by so quickly.

“You have to give and take with one another.

“He is very caring - and doesn’t mind me spending money on clothes.

“He has always been a hard worker and provided for his family.”

David added: “I have learned to listen to my wife and to what she says because she has some good advice.

“I wouldn’t change her, and I don’t think I could manage without her.

“She always looks after us.”

The couple have four children together, Karen, Susan, Linda (who tragically died in 2018 aged just 48, and Lisa.

They also have six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Their daughter Lisa Duckers says that throughout her family’s life, her dad was always very selfless, hard-working, and always providing for them.

And said that her mum always gave her "strength and commitment to looking after the family".

Lisa said: “I want to thank both of them for their continuous love throughout the years and making us, the people family we are today.

“I am so proud of them and for what they have achieved and it’s lovely they have reached 60 years.

“We are a really close-knit family.

“They have given so much love to us as a family over the years and made so many sacrifices for us all.”

David and Christine celebrated with their loved ones with a restaurant meal, as well as receiving lots of flowers and cards, including a telegram from King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla.

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