A CREDITON couple who married on October 21, 1959, are looking forward to celebrating their Diamond Wedding anniversary at a family lunch this weekend.

Robert Powlesland married Gwen Vile at Drewsteignton Parish Church and they both met and got to know each other through their membership of Cheriton Bishop Young Farmers’ Club.

Gwen said that she had been a member of the club, which is now Cheriton and Tedburn YFC, since 1955 until over age.

Robert had been a chairman and president of the club and Gwen was formerly the club secretary.

Both were advisory members of the club and during the time they were members, both had won cups for the most points gained in YFC competitions during the year.

Robert and Gwen came from farming families and after their marriage, they continued to farm.

This was at Coursebeer Farm, Whiddon Down, until 1985 and Twisted Oak, Tedburn St Mary, from 1985 to 2014.

For many years Robert ran an agricultural contracting business, mainly baling and hedge trimming, while Gwen worked at home on the beef and sheep farm, caring for the calves and other work.

The couple have two children, Ivan and Mervyn and five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Due to some health issues, the family moved to Crediton last December.

They both enjoy playing whist and attending whist drives, particularly at the Waie Inn at Zeal Monachorum, Chulmleigh and Sampford Courtenay.