A couple who met on the aircraft factory floor during the Second World War have marked an amazing 70 years of marriage this week.

George and Irene Holt, of Bank Street, Church, celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary on Tuesday, July 7.

The couple met in 1944, on the factory floor at the Bristol Aircraft Corporation in Clayton-le-Moors.

George, now 92, who was working as an engineer, said: “We were both at the factory making aircraft engines.

“I saw her across the floor and thought, ‘She’s a bit of alright!’ We started going out soon after.”

George soon left the factory to join the RAF, but the couple stayed together, marrying in July 1945 at Sacred Heart Church on Blackburn Road.

George said: “One of my favourite memories of our marriage was when we were on honeymoon in Blackpool.

“We went paddling about in the sea and the waves started coming in a bit.

“Irene lost her balance, so I got hold of her, but then more waves came in and knocked me down too. I remember she hit me with a towel and said ‘We’ve only been married for a week and you’re already trying to drown me!’”

After a few years stationed with the RAF in Germany, the couple returned to Lancashire, with George taking a job as a heavy goods driver, and Irene, 90, looking after their four children George, Pauline, Derek and Peter.

The couple now also have nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

George said: “I think the biggest secret to a long and happy marriage is to always let her have her own way!

“But also, it’s very important to be there for each other. Irene’s always been very good to me and I really hope I’ve been good to her.”

George and Irene marked their milestone anniversary with a celebratory family lunch, and family members hope to hold a party for them at a later date. They were also delighted to receive their third congratulatory card from the Queen, following two sent on their 60th and 65th wedding anniversaries.

Their daughter Pauline Blackwell said: “My parents are a very loving couple. My dad’s always said he saw mum walking through the factory and then that was it.

“Over 70 years together, they have always looked after each other. They are both really caring.”