CHILDHOOD sweethearts now aged 97 and 94 will be celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary on Valentine’s Day, proving that laughter is the key to happiness.

Gertrude Wigley knew she had met her perfect match when she met James, known as Arthur, at the age of 16 while he was out with his friends and thought the dashing 18-year-old had “lovely teeth.”

The parents-of-one, from Newton-le-willows, got married four years later on February 14 1942 in St John’s Church, Earlestown, before honeymooning in Blackpool.

Arthur, a former engineer at the Vulcan Works, who will turn 97 on February 15, said: “We have had a good life together, we have always made each other laugh and if I could I would do it all again.

“It’s a miracle anniversary, we are very lucky”

The couple say they cherish their memories together including holidays to their favourite place, Portugal as well as Ibiza, Majorca and Greece.

Arthur, who has lived independently since Gertrude moved into Parr Nursing Home a year ago, added: “When she walked down the aisle she looked lovely but if I’m honest all I was thinking was how Everton were getting on in the match that day.

“Seriously though she’s been a good wife and a brilliant mother, and she wasn’t bad looking at all, so I’m happy.”

Gertrude, 94, added: “I wouldn’t change him, we’ve had our ups and downs but we have been happy and he still makes me laugh.

“We’ve had a long marriage and he visits me up to five days a week and he’s not that bad.”

Their daughter Margaret Fairhurst, 74, said: “It’s amazing that they have been together since Churchill was prime minister, I think that shows they are doing alright.

“I’m very lucky to still have them especially with their sense of humours.”