CHILDHOOD sweethearts Jimmy and Jean Geldard certainly had an explosive start to their relationship.
The couple, who celebrated their golden anniversary on Friday, met, at the age of 12, at a Bonfire Night display in Darlington. But it was another three years before they began courting.
"It was love at second sight really," said Mrs Geldard, 69, of Rosedale Crescent, Branksome.
"I'd met him once and then when I met him again, aged 15, I knew he was the one for me."
The couple married, aged 19, at St Mary's Church, Cockerton. They have seven children: Melvin, 49, Robert, 46, Ellen, 45, June, 44, George, 41, Ann, 40 and Assa, 39.
"We have had our moments, our ups and downs, but we have still stuck together. My husband has had two triple by-passes and has got a pacemaker, which makes our anniversary even more special," said Mrs Geldard.
Mr Geldard, 69, said: "It's been a happy 50 years. We've stuck together through thick and thin."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article