Felpham couple celebrate golden wedding

That is the view of Ros and Jak Kissell, who received it in droves at their golden wedding celebration on Saturday.

The couple, who were married on August 7, 1965, gathered with 25 guests for lunch at The Old Stables in Fontwell.

Among them were their two sons and their families. Robert and his partner Louise live round the corner with sons Matthew, 16, and Alex, 11, while James and his Australian wife Kath live in Sydney with daughter, Alexa, three, and had flown in especially for the celebrations.

Also attending the party was Ros’s sister, Patricia Clark, who had been her bridesmaid.

The couple, of Thirlmere Way, Felpham, concluded that the secret to a long surviving marriage was the love and support of family and friends both near and far.

“You must give each other the space to achieve your own goals,” they added.

“You must compromise and have patience, but the rewards are truly great.”

Jak, is a retired lecturer from the University of Chichester and Roslyn a retired probation officer and has been a parish councillor for Felpham for more than 15 years.

The couple, who share a love of theatre, jazz and dining out, met in London.

They have lived in their Felpham home for 37 years and their two boys both attended Felpham Community College.

The anniversary festivities on Saturday included a lunch, celebration cake and champagne toast.

A speech was given by each son, recognising the enduring love of family and friendship bonds that the couple agree has underpinned their union.

Reflecting on the past 50 years, the couple cited their 25th wedding anniversary gathering in London, Jak’s surprise 60th birthday when he anticipating four guests and 60 turning up, Roslyn’s academic achievements and their first visit to Australia in 2004 as highlights of their marriage.

They said they were very proud of their sons, partners and three grandchildren.

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