When they met more than 60 years ago at the dancing in Kirkintilloch Town Hall, it was the start of a lifelong partnership for John and Lily McGroarty.
The couple, who have worked and lived in Kirkintilloch their whole married life, have just celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary. They agree on most things and when asked for the secret to their long and happy marriage they concurred once again……for Lily it's the greenhouse and for John it's the garden.
As well as their green-fingered hobbies, John and Lily enjoy spending time with their family including their two granddaughters. The clan gathered to celebrate the special anniversary with happy memories of the wedding ceremony in Holy Family & St Ninian's Church in Kirkintilloch on 19 October 1963, followed by a honeymoon by the sea, in Blackpool.
Provost Renwick joined John and Lily's celebration and presented them with flowers and a framed extract of their entry in the marriage register. She said, "It was a joy to meet Mr & Mrs McGroarty and their family on such a happy occasion and to be part of their special day. My heartiest congratulations to them both!"
Deputy Lieutenant Anne Smillie presented the couple with a card from the King and Queen Consort.