A couple have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in Rhymney, having married in Bewdellty Church on August 26 1944.
Mel and Tydfil Lloyd, both 90 and from Bargoed, met at a dance when Mel was a colliery blacksmith and Tydfil worked at a local grocery store.
While they were courting Mel would visit the store for fruit and vegetables as an excuse to spend time with Tydfil.
It was her who first mentioned marriage after attending a wedding in Aberdare.
She didn’t waste any time and told Mel marriage was affordable as he met her off the bus that evening in Bargoed.
The backdrop of war and rationing did not spoil their perfect wedding and Tydfil’s mother, who was a seamstress, made the bride the perfect dress.
Food was provided from local allotments and Tydfil’s mother’s very own fruit garden.
The pair went on to have two children, Avis and Linda, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Mel became a councillor on the Rhymney Valley District Council until he retired to spend more time with his wife.
They continue to enjoy their hobbies that include dancing, gardening and cooking.
The couple celebrated their anniversary at Min-Y-Mydd Resource Centre, Rhymney, with staff, family and friends.
Cllr Keith Reynolds, the Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, and Mayor David Carter were also at the celebrations.
Cllr David Carter said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to be here celebrating with Mel and Tydfil on this very special occasion.
“Their love for each other is inspirational, and I would like to congratulate them, and wish them and their family all the very best for the future.”