LOVE blossomed for Tom and Beryl Duckworth at a romantic Valentine's Day dance in their home town.

The couple, of Earnsdale Road, Darwen, are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary today .

Tom, 74, who spent his career as a PE teacher at St Mary's College, Blackburn, was a champion diver in the Royal Navy.

Before they met, Beryl often went to watch his high and spring board displays at Darwen Baths with her father.

They marked the milestone with a luncheon organised by family at Whitehall Hotel and Country Club in Darwen.

Beryl, 70, a former secretary, said: "Tom was very well known in the town because of his diving and has been involved with Darwen Swimming Club for most of his life.

"He was on leave from the navy and we got together after he asked me to dance at my work's Valentine's dance.

"The love of our family and friends has helped keep us happy during our marriage."

The couple, who have four children, a son who died, and ten grandchildren, have asked for donations to The East Lancashire Hospice Appeal and Derian House instead of gifts.

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