Fifty years earlier they were married at St. Mary's Church, Rushden.

The newly-built St. Peter's Church, which they attended, had not then been licensed for marriages.

The curate of St. Peter's, the Rev. E. G. Bettenson, performed the ceremony.

For a long time Mr. Mackness was a churchwarden at St. Peter's. He and his wife, Mrs. Frances Mary Mackness, continued to attend the new church regularly.

Born at Harpenden and a resident of Rushden since he was only a few months old, Mr. Mackness was for a number of years secretary of the Nursing Association Factory Fund. He was employed by H. T. Mackness, Ltd., as overseer of the clicking room until he retired three years ago.

Mrs Mackness, who was born in Rushden is 73, one year younger than her husband.

Throughout their marked life they have lived in the same house.