Herefordshire couple celebrate love at first sight that has lasted six decades (From Hereford Times)
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Herefordshire couple celebrate love at first sight that has lasted six decades
7:00am Monday 2nd January 2012 in Features By Lauren Rogers
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Diamond weding couple Phyllis and John Rowlett.
IT was lasting love at first sight for a Hereford couple who married just four months after falling for each other.
Phyllis and John Rowlett, who both turned 80 earlier this year, were married at St Martin’s Church in Ross Road on December 22 1951.
John, originally from Salford, was posted to Hereford after National Service training and was based at the city’s old military convalescence depot Bradbury Lines.
Phyllis, who grew up on Burcott Road in Hereford, remembers seeing John around town and can still remember the moment they finally met at a dance “It really was love at first sight,” she said.
“My friend had gone to the bar and I was waiting downstairs.
He took my hand and asked if her could walk me home. I said 'yes, of course'.”
When the couple went shopping for an engagement ring they came back with wedding rings. As they were both under 21, John had to get written permisson from three people, including his commanding officer.
“We couldn’t wait because John was being demobbed and going back up north in the January.” said Phyllis.
“We’ve never looked back.
We’ve had our struggles, but we’ve raised five children and we’ve loved each other.”
In September this year the couple, of Field Grove View, off College Road, celebrated their milestone birthdays and 60th wedding anniversary with a party at Gardener Hall, part of the Royal National College for the Blind.
They spent the special occasion with all five of their children: Lynn, Janette, Audrey, Lillian and Peter – who all followed in their father’s footsteps and became dedicated supporters of Manchester United Football Club.
And the secret to a long and happy marriage?
“Get to know each other, think twice before arguing and be there for each other,” said John.
“I have been very lucky to have such a wonderful loving and supportive wife and family.”
