COMPROMISE and porridge for breakfast are key to a long life and a happy marriage according to a couple celebrating their platinum wedding anniversary tomorrow (Tuesday, March 10).

Alexander and Mabel Ellison were surrounded by family and friends when they celebrated 70 years of marriage at a big party in their hometown of Shildon, County Durham, on Saturday (March 7).

Mr Ellison, a retired miner, and Mrs Ellison started courting in 1944 after striking up conversation outside the Newton Aycliffe munitions factory, where Mrs Ellison worked during the Second World War.

However, they knew each other long before that as Mr Ellison, who was serving with the Desert Rats at the time, was a friend of Mrs Ellison’s older brother.

The couple married in 1945 at St John’s Church in Shildon and had three children Christine, David and Kathleen.

Outside of work they love to travel and have explored destinations all over the world.

When asked to reveal the secrets of a long life and a happy union, Mrs Ellison, 90, said: “It’s simple really; give and take.”

Mr Ellison, 97, agreed and added: “Porridge. I have it every day.”