50 golden years for couple

Arnold and Pat Cooper

ARNOLD Cooper thought his time was up when he suffered three major heart attacks at 49.

But the Royton great-grandfather fought his way back to fitness and is looking forward to celebrating 50 years of marriage to wife Pat tomorrow.

Pat, of Bamford Street, said: “Arnold had to retire from the paper industry when he had the heart attacks and we never thought we would get to this milestone so we’re delighted to have reached our golden wedding anniversary.”

The lovebirds met at a Wigan dancehall and became firm friends before courtship led to marriage.

The couple — both 71 — have a daughter, Sandra Miller, five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Son Kevin died six years ago. Pat enjoys making cards, baking cakes and gardening while Arnold spends lots of time at Royton Park Bowling Club.

Spilling the beans on their secret to a long and happy marriage, Pat said: “We are honest and straightforward. We never eat a meal in silence. If something needs saying we say it, then it’s done with.”