A COUPLE who met across a crowded ballroom dance floor as teenagers are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary.

And now Doreen Mills, 71, and husband John, 75, of Thirlmere Drive, Darwen, spend their spare time in tandem at the more serene sport of crown green bowling at the town's Everton Street club.

The couple celebrated 50 years of marriage with a party at Ineos Sports and Social Club with nearly 100 friends, accumulated from spending a lifetime in Darwen.

They married at St. James' Church, Darwen, after a three-year engagement.

John worked in the factory of Crown Paints for many years, while Doreen worked part-time as a petrol garage attendant after son Geoff, now 46, was born.

Now they enjoy retirement together surrounded by their family, which includes a 21-year-old grandson.

Doreen said: "I think we are understanding of one another and, like everybody, we have a little bit of give and take and trust."