Mr. and Mrs. Harry Haxley, of 80b, High-street, Raunds, celebrated their golden wedding on Thursday with a family party at their home.

The couple are both members of old Raunds families, and have lived in the town since their marriage at Baptist Church, Rushden.

The eldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Groom, of Raunds, Mrs. Haxley is 76. She is still a staunch supporter of the Baptist Church. Mr. Haxley is the eldest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Haxley, also of Raunds, and is one year younger than his wife.

Mr. Haxley claims to be one of the oldest hand-sewn boot makers and repairers in the district, and although he still does odd jobs was forced to retire from regular employment after his 65th birthday.

Looking Ahead

In an interview Mrs. Haxley declared that the success of tbeir married life was due to plenty of hard work, and a willingness to take the ups and downs all in the same spirit. "I have had a hard and busy life," she said, "and I do not regret it one little bit."

Mr. and Mrs. Haxley have a family of five and there are eight grandchildren, all of whom were to assemble for this afternoon's party.

"I think that a lot of married happiness is due to not interfering with one's own children too much," said Mrs. Haxley. "Although we may not agree with their modern ideas, the best thing to do is to let them live their lives and we ours. Too much unhappiness in marriage is due to tying down your children, and I don't agree with it."

"I only hope you can come and interview us at our diamond wedding," said Mrs. Haxley as our reporter departed.