THE whole country was in mourning at the time when Ivor and Brenda Cox announced they were getting married.

The Worcester couple got engaged the same week that King George VI died, which brought a premature end to their celebrations.

"It wasn't the best time to get engaged," said Brenda, aged 73. "There was no entertainment - the country was in mourning, and everywhere just shut down.

"There was nothing we could do."

They are hoping for better luck when they celebrate their Golden Wedding today.

Ivor and Brenda, of Tunnel Hill, Tolladine, met in 1951 at Fernhill Heath Memorial Hall's Saturday night dance.

"I didn't know her, but I just asked her if she wanted to dance," said Ivor, 74, who was a mechanic in the RAF at the time.

They got married in 1953 at St John's Church, Worcester, before heading to Bournemouth for a week's honeymoon.

Ivor worked in Sri Lanka with the RAF for a spell, before settling down in Worcester and working as a mechanic at several garages in the city.

Brenda still works in the accounts department of PKF Accountants in Worcester, and has also done a variety of secretarial jobs.

The couple have one son, David, and three grandchildren, Rebecca, Victoria and Michael.

Ivor retired early and started doing voluntary work at Newtown Hospital for the WRVS. He now works as a Wayfinder at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, helping visitors to find the right department.

Ivor is also a member of Worcestershire Rambling Club, where he was president for four years, while Brenda enjoys knitting, embroidery, tapestry and doing crosswords.

Brenda says the secret to a successful marriage is "give and take", while Ivor says it is about "tolerance and understanding."

"We've never had an argument," he said. "I'm very placid and laid-back!"

The couple will be having a meal with their family tonight, and will be having a reception for family and friends on Sunday.