A SUCCESSFUL blind date more than 50 years ago was celebrated recently as a West Devon couple marked their golden wedding anniversary. Martin and Brenda Burt, from Dousland, were introduced by a mutual friend while Brenda was working as a student nurse at the London Hospital and Martin worked as an electrical engineer in Chelmsford. Married in Upminster, Essex in 1964, they started married life in Swindon, then lived in Essex, Weymouth and Nailsea before moving to Dousland in 1993. Brenda had posts as a staff nurse, midwife, community nurse and practice nurse, while Martin continued visiting factories to review electronic equipment. The couple have three children — Alison, Gavin and Neil, and one grandson Dominic. Since settling in Dousland, Brenda and Martin have been involved with various local organisations. Brenda is currently chairman of Meavy Garden Society and Martin is treasurer. Brenda's acting career for MAD (Meavy Amateur Dramatics) has included being the Queen in Cinderella, an Essex girl and a bargirl. Martin has organised much of the backstage work for the seven pantomimes so far. Another activity the couple are involved in is Scottish Country Dancing at Tavistock and at Yelverton, where Brenda teaches the group. To celebrate their milestone anniversary, Brenda and Martin hosted a lunch party for 25 family members and close friends, followed by a falconry display. On Midsummer Day, the couple organised a Scottish Country Dance, with dancers from Exeter, Cornwall and Bristol joining the local groups to fill Yelverton Memorial Hall with a colourful throng of 60 to enjoy a lively evening. Donations for St Luke's Hospice were asked for instead of presents, and although still being counted, the couple are hopeful that a considerable amount will be raised.