The Longridge couple, which now lives in Hacking Drive will be celebrating their platinum anniversary at the Alston Arms with family and friends.



Jim and Edna Rawcliffe met at the age of 15 at a dance at Claughton-on-Brock Village Hall and have never looked back since, marrying four years later at St Hilda's Church, Bilsborrow. Edna said: "I can remember the day clearly. It was stormy and raining. But when we came out of the church the sun was shining."

After their marriage the couple moved to a rented farm at Leyland and a few years later moved to Priest Hill where they lived and worked to a farm for 40 years. They retired to Longridge 24 years ago.

It seems that regular caravanning has kept them relaxed although Edna did say that sometimes her "husband does drive a bit fast".

Beside caravanning, the secret of their long and lasting togetherness is looking after each other and "give and take". Edna said: "I've suffered strokes and heart attacks and Jim always looked after me. The secret to staying together and being happy is give and take."

The couple has four children: Harry, 69, Lilian, 63, Edna, 55 and Kathleen, 53. There are 15 grandchildren and also 15 great-grandchildren with another on the way.

Caravanning has never been so popular and celebrities such as Margaret Beckett or Jay-Kay are all well known fans. Despite her promotion to foreign secretary (since May 6, 2006, the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs), Mrs Beckett is still planning her usual caravan holiday.

Caravanning is all about freedom. You can go wherever the mood takes you.