Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

A Cefn Fforest couple who grew up as neighbours are celebrating their 62nd wedding anniversary.

Brian and Margaret Main grew up on Addison Street, Cefn Fforest, before eventually marrying in in 1962.

The pair, now both aged 84, were friends growing up, until Brian moved away to Ebbw Vale with his father. Brian later returned aged 18, and him and Margaret began “courting”.

They became Mr and Mrs Main on March 31, 1962, and now live happily in Cwmgelli, Blackwood.

The couple have three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer about their marriage, Brian said: “I moved away with my father when I was quite young, as he was a colliery manager and was often moved around.

“When I came back home at 18, Margaret was still living next door to the rest of my family and we started courting from there.

“At 21, we got married at Bedwellty church, before moving to a house I built in Cwmgelli around 1973.”

Brian spoke about the range of jobs he has had over the years, starting off as an apprentice fitter, before following in his father’s footsteps and working at the collieries in Oakdale and Blackwood.

He continued: “I drove overhead cranes for a while and resprayed cars. That all stopped after the miners’ strike though, they were our main customers.”

Brian also worked as a traffic warden in Tredegar, then Blackwood, before eventually retiring in 2003.

“I’ve managed well since. I’ve always been good at working with wood and metal so I’ve kept myself busy with tasks here and there.”

Brian explained how Margaret started her career as a dress designer for toy maker Chilton, before working as a seamstress in Blackwood before becoming a housewife.

“We are big caravaners these days. We did get on a plane for the first time in 2010 but Margaret wasn’t a fan”, Brian joked.

Asked how they’d be celebrating their anniversary, Brian said: “Margaret has difficulty hearing these days so we’ll probably do something quiet and local. I’ve been asking what she wants but she’s yet to give me an answer.”

Blackwood councillor Kevin Etheridge said: “I’d like to congratulate Mr and Mrs Main, who can only be described as a smashing couple who are always willing to help anyone.”

On the secret to a long-lasting marriage, Brian joked he has “no idea”, but said he “must be doing something right”.