THEY may be in their nineties but a young at heart couple from Christchurch are celebrating their 70th anniversary.

George and Iris Tinson, who moved to the area 25 years ago from East London, celebrated their happy occasion with their two daughters over a special lunch on Wednesday.

And the sprightly pair, who will also have a second party with more family later this week, say the secret to a happy marriage is never going to bed on an argument.

The couple, who were married at St John’s church in Leytonstone in 1942, were separated just a fortnight later when George was sent to war.

He spent three years fighting in the Second World War including at El Alamein before he returned home to Iris, who had been employed in war work, making mortar bomb cases while he was away.

The couple have two daughters, Pamela and Linda, four grandchildren, Matthew, Daniel, Edward and Georgia and four great-grandchildren, Harry, Ellie, Felix and George.

And as well as their family activities, the couple still go dancing at the British Legion in Christchurch every Saturday night, as well as playing skittles and cards.

George, 95, said: “You’ve got to have a sense of humour. We do have a laugh and we get on very well.

“Never draw out an argument until the next day.

“We’ve had a very happy life together.”

Iris, 90, added: “We’re still very active and really enjoy our social activities. You need to keep busy. It keeps you young.”