A couple from Wickham Market who have been together since their schooldays have celebrated 60 years of marriage. 

Michael Manning and his wife Jean, both 80, were married at the village church in Wickham Market on Saturday, March 9, 1963. 

They celebrated 60 happy years together on Thursday.  

East Anglian Daily Times: Michael and Jean Manning have been together since their schooldays. Credit: Charlotte BondMichael and Jean Manning have been together since their schooldays. Credit: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

East Anglian Daily Times: Michael and Jean on their wedding day, 60 years ago. Credit: Charlotte BondMichael and Jean on their wedding day, 60 years ago. Credit: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Mr and Mrs Manning met as children, when they both attended the secondary modern school in the village, with Mr Manning in the year above.  

Mr Manning worked as the station safety manager for Sizewell C for many years, before retiring in 2003. Meanwhile, Mrs Manning worked for 50 years as a caretaker and housekeeper at the nearby Glevering Estate. 

The couple have two sons, Richard and Dean, four grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.  

East Anglian Daily Times: Mr and Mrs Manning celebrated with a special cake, enjoyed by all their family and friends. Credit: Charlotte BondMr and Mrs Manning celebrated with a special cake, enjoyed by all their family and friends. Credit: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

East Anglian Daily Times: Mr Manning said it was hard to put his finger on the secret to a long and happy marriage. Credit: Charlotte BondMr Manning said it was hard to put his finger on the secret to a long and happy marriage. Credit: Charlotte Bond (Image: Charlotte Bond)

Mr Manning said it was difficult to put his finger on the secret to a long and happy marriage. 

“Everybody has ups and downs, it’s about tolerance,” he said.  

However, he added that a shared love of good food can certainly have its bonuses.  

“She’s a good cook, and I’m a good eater!” he said. 

Last month, a couple from Dedham Vale celebrated an incredible 72 years of marriage.