SWEETHEARTS Bert and Kathleen Dewsbury were married during World War II on January 10, 1942, at Crosby, Lancashire.

The couple met while they were both working at the Co-operative Insurance Company but by their wedding day Bert had been called up and had to apply to the Royal Artillery for special leave.

It was a cold but sunny winter's day at St Luke's church and the couple went to Blackpool afterwards for their honeymoon.

Daughter Liz Tracy said: "The story goes that while at the seaside the air raid sirens went off but they chose to ignore them."

To mark their 70th anniversary the couple received an official greeting from HM the Queen.

After military life Bert returned to his career in insurance while Kathleen stayed at home with their three children, Liz and her brothers Kenneth and Peter.

They all moved south in 1954 and for many years the family home was at Abbots Leigh.

Two years ago Bert and Kathleen moved to Pegasus Court, a supported housing complex, at Stockway North.

It was here that a "great party" for all the family was held on Sunday.

The couple also have three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Kathleen attributed their long and happy marriage to their strong family bonds.