AN ANDOVER couple returned to the venue of their wedding reception to celebrate their 50th year of marriage.

Pauline and David Chilton took their family to the White Hart in Bridge Street in Andover to mark their golden wedding.

Both were born and bred in the town and met when David was singing at St Michaels Church along with Pete Staples who later played in The Troggs.

Pauline and David were married at St Mary’s Church in Andover in a ceremony which was overseen by two vicars as their local church was still being built.

The couple have three sons, Mark, Gary and Phillip, who have given them eight grandchildren, five boys and three girls.

David worked for Chapel River Press and spent time as a ventriloquist while Pauline worked in catering for St John’s Hospital and together they have lived in Andover since their marriage.

Pauline was a founding member of the original Andover Athletics Club and is a big fan of the sport while David enjoys music including playing the piano.

When asked what the secret to a successful marriage is the couple said: “It’s about being there for each other and sorting your way through the ups and downs, everybody has them but you just keep going.”