Diamond couple (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Diamond couple

10:00am Thursday 14th June 2012 in Local By Helen Morton

CYRIL and Sheila Knight have something in common with The Queen because they are also celebrating a special diamond anniversary in 2012.

For Cyril and Sheila, their cause for celebration is 60 years of marriage – and they have received messages of goodwill from friends, family and The Queen herself, who sent them a congratulatory card.

The devoted diamond couple, from Old Basing, were married in 1952 in their home town of Dorking but moved to the Berg Estate, Basingstoke in 1959 because of the more affordable house prices.

They had to put down a deposit of just £5 on the bungalow, and it was here that they spent 20 happy years bringing up their two children Ian and Colette.

They have remained in the Basingstoke area ever since, moving to Pack Lane, Kempshott for 20 years and then to Church Lane, Old Basing, where they live today.

The couple, who have three grandchildren, met in Dorking while they were both working for British Rail.

Cyril, who retired 30 years ago and is now 84, worked as an economist and Sheila was a machine operator.

They have both been heavily involved in community life in Basingstoke. Cyril helps out at St Mary’s Church, Old Basing, and Sheila is a member of Friends of St Mary’s and charity, the Aldworth Trust Foundation. Sheila was also a borough councillor for many years.

Ten years ago, when they were celebrating 50 years of marriage and The Queen was celebrating 50 years on the throne, the couple were invited to Buckingham Palace for a Golden Jubilee celebration.

Shelia, 79, said: “The Queen walked down past us and we had cucumber sandwiches. It was a special day.”

She added: “It’s hard to believe we have been married for 60 years. The time has gone so fast.”