Islandmagee couple Sam and Shirley Marsden mark an incredible 70 years of marriage

Sam and Shirley Marsden celebrated the significant milestone on Saturday, November 7 with a party at their home.

A poem written by the late John Magill to mark their diamond anniversary 10 years ago tells of how the couple met at a dance at Milebush, run by the Young Farmers Club.

They soon became a item, with Sam – according to the poem – selling a pig to buy an engagement ring for Shirley.

The couple were married at North Street Presbyterian Church in 1956 by Rev Martin, with Shirley aged just 18 and Sam 21.

Their sons Stephen, born in 1957, Ivan in 1958 and Trevor in 1959 soon followed, with daughter Anne born in 1961.

Later, they welcomed 13 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

Faming was close to their hearts, with Sam serving in farming committees through the years. His efforts were recognised in 1997 when he went to Buckingham Palace to receive an MBE.

Sam and Shirley are keen travellers, having travelled the world for three months and even flying on Concord. Both also enjoy vintage cars, with many an outing in their old Rolls Royce.

With Sam now 91 years old and Shirley approaching her 89th birthday on Boxing Day, the couple, while retired, continue to keep busy. “They’re still very independent and both still driving,” said the couple’s daughter, Anne Laird. “We are so blessed to have them so long.”