A COUPLE were childhood friends have just celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with family and friends.

Muriel, 73 and William Woodley, 79, from Great Kingshill, have known each other since they were children and their friendship turned into romance when they were in their 20s.

Mr Woodley said: 'Muriel's dad was our butcher and he used to come in for a drink in our pub, the Dog and Duck in Denham. Our parents were good friends so we've known each other for most of our lives.'

He added that Muriel used to help out behind the bar when they were busy. The couple's friendship developed into romance and they were married on July 29, 1950 at Denham Church.

The couple, who have a son Colin, have lived at their farm in Great Kingshill for about 30 years. William has been a farmer all his life, apart from a three year stint as a butcher.

Mrs Woodley, who was a secretary at Pinewood Studios until she married, said: 'We have always had to do things together. Working on a farm is a different lifestyle. We enjoy the same things and are interested in the same things.'

Mr Woodley said: 'We just get on well. I think couples have to get to know one another before running in and getting married.'