AN East Renfrewshire couple are preparing to celebrate their 68th Valentine’s Day as husband and wife.

Archie and Martha Kirkland first met in London in the early 1950s through a mutual friend.

The pair began dating before tying the knot in May 1955 and have been inseparable since, rarely spending a day apart.

In 1964, they moved north, switching the English capital for the west of Scotland, where Archie grew up.

Now aged 93 and 91, this will be Archie and Martha's first Valentine's Day at Mearns House, having moved to the Newton Mearns care home together last year.

Providing tips for a happy marriage, the pair said that being there for each other every day is the key.

Barrhead News: Martha and Archie KirklandMartha and Archie Kirkland (Image: Sourced)

After a fall resulted in a hospital stay for Martha last spring, the couple moved into Mearns House in adjacent rooms, meaning they can remain by each other’s side every day.

Archie said: “We are happy to be in Mearns House, being well looked after by all the kind staff – comfortable, secure and enjoying other people's company.”

Staff at the home, run by care provider Meallmore, are planning special celebrations for the couple, including a Valentine’s Day meal, live entertainment and a number of themed activities.

Kirsty Craig, Mearns House manager, said: “Archie and Martha set a great example for long-lasting love and the importance of supporting one another this Valentine’s Day.

"The pair are excellent company and bring a real liveliness to the home. We love welcoming their family to Mearns for visits.”

Archie and Martha have three daughters – Annelies, Jean and Rita – and son Mark, as well as six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A spokesperson for the family said: “We are so pleased that mum and dad really enjoy life together in Mearns House. The facilities are great and they take part in many of the activities on offer.

"The staff are kind and couldn’t do more for them.”