Brierfield chip shop couple celebrate 60-year marriage

Frank (83) and Joyce (79) Rowland, of Barkerhouse Road, Nelson, met while dancing at the Weavers’ Institution in Hammerton Street, Burnley, after Frank returned from the army where he was Gen. Horroocks’ driver.

Joyce worked as a weaver at Whittams Mill in Plumbe Street, Burnley.

They were married at St Mary’s Church, Burnley, on December 1st, 1951, before Frank whisked his new bride off to London for their honeymoon.

Setting up home in the Brunshaw Road part of Burnley, they brought up seven children in the area until 1971.

Within his career, Frank has been a bus driver and milkman before he and his wife took over the Brierfield Livingstone Street Chippy in the 1970s for eight years.

And, since retiring, the active couple have enjoyed many holidays and now like to tour the country in their caravan.

They have a special place in their hearts for York and regularly take trips there.

The couple have 15 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Daughter Yvonne Tunstill said: “My dad jokes that there has never been a wrong word in 60 years but they really have been there for each other over the years. We are all really proud of them and they have done so well bringing us all up.”

As well as scores of cards including a telegram from the Queen, they were treated to a two-tier cake and presents a plenty.