Diamond day as Barrhead happy couple toast 60 years of married bliss

Alan and Irene Fraser, who now live at the town’s Parkhouse Manor Care Home, held hands as they reflected on their special day back in 1959.

Their celebration started out with a pamper at the care home’s hairdressers before guests arrived for a good old knees-up, with music and plenty of nibbles on offer.

And the happy couple even got up to have a wee dance together, just like old times.

The pair were joined by their children Steven and Lorna and grandchildren Euan, Fiona and Olivia, as well as some friends.

Alan, 87, said time has flown by since he tied the knot with Irene.

He told the Barrhead News: “It doesn’t feel like 60 years, it really has just crept up on us.”

Alan originally hails from Millport and it was there that he first met his wife-to-be.

“I have so many great memories of going to Millport with Irene,” he said. Having our children and grandchildren are also some of our best memories together.

“My rule is that, as long as Irene is happy, I am happy – and it always helps if you just agree and don’t say no.”

Irene was on holiday in Millport with family back in 1958 when she first set eyes on Alan.

It wasn’t long before the pair tied the knot and settled into life in Glasgow the following year.

Alan was a training instructor for Strathclyde Regional Council’s water department before he retired, while Irene, now aged 81, worked as a secretary for the Solid Fuel Advisory Service.

The couple have lived in Barrhead for around 30 years.

The happy couple on their wedding day in 1959

Leeanne Taggart, activities co-ordinator at Parkhouse Manor Care Home, said: “Alan and Irene always sit together, holding hands.

“They had a lovely day as they celebrated their special anniversary.

“Alan enjoyed a nice shave in the morning and Irene had her hair done.

“The room was filled with lots of balloons and they had a cake.

“It was a very special occasion for them.”