Diamonds are forever

Diamond couple George and Margaret Woodcock

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A BESOTTED couple who met on Oldham's dance floors are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary today.

George Woodcock (86) met his wife of 60 years Margaret (83) at Hill Stores ballroom in 1954 when he mistook her for a relative.

The error was quickly ironed out and the pair began courting before marrying at St Patrick's RC Church in John Street three years later.

Mr Woodcock, of Greenacres, said: "We went ballroom dancing every Saturday night. It was the in thing.

"The first time we met I actually thought she was my cousin Mary. I had asked her to dance only for her to tell me she was called Margaret and she wasn't my cousin at all.

"I quickly apologised and that was it. We hit it off, began courting and were married in 1957."

The Woodcocks' extended family came together for a celebration last Sunday at St Anne's RC Church in Clarksfield, where Mr and Mrs Woodcock worship.

During the service the couple were presented with a signed photo of Pope Francis and a papal blessing. The Apostolic Blessing is granted on request for notable anniversaries.

Mr Woodcock said: "It is a lovely photo - it was brilliant to receive it. We were presented with one for our golden wedding anniversary as well.

"Our priest said some people collect postage stamps but we collect papal blessings."

Their first home was in Redgrave Street where they settled for 10 years before moving to their current home in Prince Edward Avenue.

Mr Woodcock said: "You work together, you give and take. That is what it is all about because if we didn't it wouldn't last."

Mrs Woodcock added: "We disagree on everything but are always there for each other. We are so proud of our family and are thankful for what we have."

The couple have six children, the furthest away living in Delph, and nine grandchildren. They became great-grandparents to twin girls last June.

Daughter Marie Taylor, of Greenacres, said: "They are wonderful parents. Even though it should be us looking after them they are still looking after us and all of the grandchildren."