Couple celebrating 65 years married say the key to a happy relationship is ‘talking out your problems’

Edmond and Frances Corbett, aged 89 and 85, are to welcome around 130 people to celebrate their special occasion at a party in the coming weeks.

The pair now live in Northampton, with Edmond born in Galbally and Frances born in Newry. They each moved to England at very different stages of their lives – when Frances was one and Edmond was 19. They first met at an Irish dance in Manchester in their late teens and early twenties, and it was around three years later when they tied the knot – on February 7, 1959.

They now reside in Kingsley and have four children – Edmund, Catherine, Teresa and Bernadette – as well as nine grandchildren and three great grandsons. The family members live nearby and Edmond and Frances feel lucky to be able to see them regularly.

When asked what they love and admire most about one another, Edmond said: “It will take me too long to explain. We get on very well together and listen,” said Frances. “If you talk you can solve your problems, and the ups and downs, without losing your temper.”

Frances added that she believes the key to a long and happy marriage is to talk your problems out and to never go to bed without resolving an argument. They believe compromise is important to keep one another happy.

Edmond and Frances’ children, grandchildren and great grandchildren form an important part of their lives, and they think it is “brilliant” that they get to see them so regularly.

“It makes a big difference,” said Frances. “You know you can turn to them.”

The pair are excited to welcome all their friends and relatives to their upcoming gathering in Kingsley – with some even travelling from Ireland to celebrate the occasion.

With music and Irish dancing planned as part of the evening, Frances says the couple and their family are really looking forward to it.

Frances’ advice is ‘never go to bed without resolving an argument’