Celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary on October 18, the now 89-year-old and 88-year-old respectively were thrilled to celebrate with their two sons, Stephen and Garry, five grandchildren and five great grand children and to hear at the time from the Prime Minister, local MP and the council.
But imagine their surprise last week when a large official looking letter arrived from no less than Buckingham Palace, featuring well wishes on their 70th anniversary from King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla.
“It was a shock but a nice one; it was a couple of months late and it wasn’t from our beloved Queen Elizabeth II who had passed away the month before our anniversary, but we were touched to receive messages from the new King,” Mr Darley said.
The Revesby Workers’ Club members and seasoned travellers say they feel lucky to have enjoyed such a long, happy life in Panania.
“We struggled initially to get a house but it’s nothing compared with the struggle young people have today,” Mr Darley said.
“The important thing to remember is that life is give and take and so is marriage.
“We discuss everything and always value each other’s opinion; you can’t go wrong if you do that.”
Well wishes from King after 70-year marriage
AMONG the original homeowners in Panania, Robert (Bob) and June Darley bought the first residential block for £330 after a chicken farm was subdivided in 1956 and still live in the same house in Paul Street today.