A GOLDEN couple got their happy ending after meeting at the pictures.

Eddie and Joan Airey, of Front Street, Kirk Merrington, near Spennymoor, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday.

The couple met at the Arcadia Cinema, in Spennymoor, and were married at St John's Church, in Kirk Merrington, on Whit Saturday, 1958.

After a reception at the family home of Mrs Airey, nee Harmer, in Kirk Merrington, they travelled to Whitby on a Lambretta scooter for their honeymoon.

The couple have two sons, David and Andrew, and two granddaughters, Martha and Anna.

After completing national service with the RAF, Mr Airey, 73, worked as a cabinet maker - serving his apprenticeship at Kenmir's in Spennymoor, and worked for several companies including Toothill's Furniture, in Newton Aycliffe.

He retired in 1991 and spent more time on his hobbies, supporting Sunderland football club, fly fishing, oil painting and reading.

Mrs Airey, 72, worked for Spennymoor Urban District Council and later was a secretary for Sedgefield Borough Council before retiring in 1986.

She enjoys crafts, photography and is an active member of the Women's Institute, presently as secretary of the Kirk Merrington branch.

The couple also enjoyed caravan holidays for 40 years and recently toured Scotland by rail to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary.

Mr Airey said: "We've had more than 50 happy years together.

"Give and take, that's the secret."