A COUPLE from Ludgershall who were born in houses next to each other in the town have celebrated their diamond wedding.

Ray and Joan Jackson both grew up in Ludgershall but despite being born in such close proximity, they only properly met when Joan sat behind Ray on a local bus.

The pair both attended Pewsey Carnival aged 15 and their relationship blossomed from there. They eventually married on 24 July, 1954, at St James’ Church, Ludgershall.

Together they have always lived in the town and have two sons and two daughters, along with 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Both Joan and Ray worked at the Ludgershall vehicle depot. Ray also spent time with the Army, serving for a while in Kenya.

Ray has been a keen sportsman for most of his life, playing football, cricket and more recently golf, as well as chess and yachting, while Joan is a keen gardener.

Of their marriage, Joan said: “You have to talk things through and you shouldn’t go to bed on an argument.”

Ray added: “How our lives have expanded since being born next door to each other is amazing. It was just meant to be.”