Mary recalls everywhere was knee deep in snow which made it really difficult when she went to pick up her wedding dress. There were no buses running but luckily a friend had a taxi and managed to get to the dress shop to help her out. Meanwhile Norman’s car had broken down.

But they got there in the end and celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary with South Lanarkshire Provost Margaret Cooper, who presented the couple with flowers, a special bottle of whisky and a certificate on behalf of the council. And joining her at the couple’s home in Lanark was Vice Lord Lieutenant Gavin Whitefield CBE DL, who also presented them with a certificate to mark their achievement.

Mary, originally from Carstairs, and Norman who grew up in Douglas Water, met at Lanark Palais at Lanark Loch in the late 50s and were married on 17 November 1962.

Their first home was in the Broomgate and have lived in Lanark ever since.

Mary was a ward sister at Law Hospital for more than 40 years and Norman worked for British Rail in its Glasgow offices, also for more than 40 years.

They have three children and six grandchildren.

Both were keen bowlers and played regularly at Lanark Bowling Club.

Norman also played football for Dunfermline Athletic and Lanark United. And he was also manager of Lanark United throughout the 70s.

If you would like the Provost to attend a Diamond Wedding or 100th birthday please get in touch with the Provost’s Office.