Daughter of couple celebrating 50th wedding anniversary hosting party

David and Joyce Broadfoot met in The Oak Tree pub in Newton-le-Willows one busy day over 50 years ago, a chance encounter where David couldn’t find a seat and literally bumped into Joyce.

That encounter led to them getting married 50 years ago on April 20 and living a life together resulting in their proud daughter Sarah.

The couple are well known in the area, and Sarah is hoping the community will come to the place they met – The Oak Tree – on Saturday to celebrate the day they met on their 50th wedding anniversary.

David and Joyce on their wedding day (Image: David and Joyce on their wedding day)

She said: “Only five per cent of marriages make it to 50 years and I’m very, very proud of my mum and dad.

“To say there have been no ups and downs would be a lie, marriage and relationships are hard, but for better or worse they are here together and completely devoted to one another and that’s their secret I think.

“They are a shining beacon of what love is to me.

“Ten years ago dad had cancer, they weathered the storm and are here to tell the tale.

“I think it’s a massive deal they have this special day, so as a surprise today I’ve arranged for two of mum’s bridesmaids and family and friends from across the country to meet in the pub where it all started to celebrate them and I hope the community will come too.

“I’ve arranged for Hilda’s Flying Duck Band to play and they will hopefully have another ‘first dance’ to their favourite song – their song – which is Maggie May by Rod Stewart.”

David and Joyce have been told today, Thursday, April 18 about their party but did not get told before. The event is taking place on Saturday, April 20 from 2pm until late.