GERALD and Rosemary Philpotts celebrated their golden wedding last weekend by going back to the church in Urchfont where they were married.

The couple, who were married on May 8, 1965, went back to St Michael and All Angels Church last Saturday to celebrate 50 years of marriage.

This was followed by an evening reception at the White Hart Hotel in Salisbury, attended by friends and family.

Mrs Philpotts, 68, said: “Urchfont church has always been special to me as I was christened, confirmed and married there. It was great to go back on the day of our anniversary.

“In the evening it was lovely to have 50 people with us to celebrate our 50 years of marriage.”

Mrs Philpotts grew up in Urchfont, in Hillsborough on the High Street, and sang in the church choir for many years.

The couple met in 1961 when Mrs Philpotts and sister Christine used to go go-kart racing near Malmesbury.

After getting married the pair moved to Mr Philpotts' home village of Bulford for 30 years and have spent the last 20 years living in Mudeford in Dorset.

The couple have two children Adam, 47, and Louise, 44.

Mrs Philpotts worked as a hairdresser in Eleganz in Devizes and carried on hairdressing in Bulford until her children were born. Her husband worked in the village garage.

Mrs Philpotts said: “Our secret to a happy marriage has always been give and take.”

In retirement Mrs Philpotts has enjoyed gardening and sewing and Mr Philpotts, 69, has recently started go-karting again with son Adam.

The couple also like to travel and particularly enjoy going on cruises.