AN INDIA and Burma Royal Engineers veteran who married his Shorts Flying Boat construction worker sweetheart during the Second World War is celebrating his diamond wedding.

George and Elizabeth Simpson, who are 82 and 81 respectively, of Nobles Rest, Kendal, marked their big day with a family get together and a meal at the Garden House, Kendal.

The pair met when Mr Simpson, originally from Cheshire, was billeted in Kendal in 1941.

They were married at the town's parish church two years later. They have a son, daughter, seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Retired factory worker Mr Simpson enjoys cribbage, reading and gardening, while his wife, a former cook, likes reading and gardening.

They both say they have been happy together, and have disclosed there have been no arguments.

As a special present, son Michael, of Blackpool, penned a poem in honour of his parents' lives together. The first verse reads:

"It was in the year of forty three when George and Elizabeth took their vows on bended knees. In an ancient church between two streams, which flow into the Kent and down to the seas, and the world was at war with Germany."

May 29, 2003 14:30