A COUPLE who have spent more than 40 years in the Calstock area celebrated their golden wedding with a special marriage blessing at the Tamar Valley Methodist Church in Albaston.

Charles and Wendy Dore were married in Acton Methodist Church in London on March 26, 1960 but later moved to Fern Farm, Drakewalls with Wendy's parents, grandmother and the couple's two children.

Mr Dore served for a time as a fireman but due to an accident at work had to leave the service. With his wife they carried on a building business and also UPVC installations acting as agents for Weru.

The couple built and lived in various properties in the area and now live in Albaston. They started their golden wedding celebrations with a marriage blessing attended by a large number of family and friends.

The service was officiated by the Rev Martyn Smith and the guest organist was their son-in-law, Michael Andrews, who came down from Bournmouth for the celebrations. The lesson was read by the couple's daughter, Mandy Andrews.

Members of the congregation then attended a lunch in the adjoining hall and donations, in lieu of flowers, were for the Tamar Valley Methodist Church.

Both Mr and Mrs Dore have been very active in the church and ardent supporters of the Latchley, Chilsworthy and Cox Park Show through the years. Mrs Dore is also a keen flower arranger and is current president of the Tamar Valley Flower Club.