North Derbyshire couple share their secret as they celebrate 60 years of marriage

Keen cricketer Sam Henson bowled over future wife Janet when they were introduced at the match in Bolsover and the couple began courting soon after.

They were married on March 18, 1961, at the former Bolsover Methodist Chapel and went on to live in several areas of north Derbyshire before moving to the coast for their retirement.

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Janet, 79, said the secret to their long and happy marriage was simple.

"I don’t believe anyone who says they never have an argument with their partner,” she said.

"We have had or ups and downs over the years but you sort them out, especially when you have a family. It’s as simple as that really.”

Janet remembers the wedding being a ‘big do’, with six bridesmaids and a reception afterwards at the Angel Hotel in Bolsover.

Sam, originally from Arkwright, worked as a miner at Markham Colliery and Janet worked at Bolsover Hosiery factory in their early married life as they built a future together.

They lived in Bolsover, Arkwright Town and Calow.

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Sam, 81, and Janet went on to have a daughter Tracey and a son Darren, before the family moved back to Bolsover.

After retiring, Sam and Janet moved to Sutton-on-Sea, in Lincolnshire, and now live in Lincoln.

Sam was a keen sportsman in his younger days, particularly enjoying football and cricket, and in retirement has joined pub game teams at a social club in Mablethorpe.

They have made many new friends at the coast and enjoy an active social life, treasuring walks on the beach with their rescue dog Cindy.

No matter where they have lived, the couple have had The Derbyshire Times delivered as they like to keep an eye on any developments in Bolsover.

The family were planning a major celebration to mark 60 years of marriage, but these are on hold until after the pandemic restrictions are eased.

Sam and Janet, who are now also grandparents, will instead spend their anniversary with an afternoon tea in their garden.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.