TWO sisters who grew up in the Forest of Dean recently celebrated their double diamond wedding anniversaries, marking an incredible 60 years of marriage. The unforgettable, rare experience enabled them both to share their special day together when they tied the knot on the same day.

The sisters Angela Rea and Mary Mason saved up together for their wedding day and their day became a reality when they married their husband’s Keith Rea and Hugo Mason on September 24, 1966.

The Beacon spoke to Angela and Keith who highlighted the happiness they felt when reflecting on their journey throughout their marriage and how being in the right place at the right time turned their love into a life-long journey.

Angela and Keith Rea celebrate 60 years of marriage
Angela and Keith Rea celebrate 60 years of marriage. (Iliffe Media)

Angela and Keith, met in Ross-on-Wye at just 17 and 18. One Saturday afternoon after Angela left the cinema she didn’t know that on the same day she would cross paths with a man who would become her now husband.

“It’s just as though it’s meant to be. Looking back you think well how could that of happened, it just fell into place.”

Keith and Angela reflect on 60 years of marriage.

The journey started long before their wedding day. Angela and Mary left their family home in English Bicknor and moved to a flat in Ross-on-Wye. They both saved and budgeted their money each week to save for their wedding.

When the day arrived they got ready at their flat in Ross-on-Wye, with custom made dresses and bridesmaids dresses. The ceremony was held at St. Frances of Rome Catholic Church followed by a wedding reception which took place in Symonds Yat at the former Yat Hotel.

The marriage was more than exchanging rings and saying vows it was securing a life-long future together. The couple now have two sons and upon reflection they revealed what they believe is the secret to a happy marriage.

“You have to ride through the storm,” they said.