If you want to know the secret to a successful marriage, just ask Derek and Barbara Hoy.

The pair said ‘I do’ 64 years ago and have recently celebrated their 90th birthdays at Springkell care home where they live together.

The couple were married in Grayshott and have lived and worked in the area for their entire lives. Their love for each other, and the area, has never wavered.

After working in finance for local government, Derek left to help run Hammer Dairy in 1969 - the family milk round business based in Copse Road, Hammer. In 1981, he acquired Grayshott Shoes and opened a fishing tackle shop behind.

In his younger years he’d also been a part-time fireman at Grayshott Fire Station, and an active member of Haslemere & District Cycling Club, during which time he won many awards. His passion for cycling was so strong, that during his national service he’d cycle home from Cambridgeshire to Haslemere and back for a weekend visit!

Barbara was born in Grayshott - and she loved it so much that she never left! Barbara started her career at Lloyds Bank Training Centre, where she worked at the Hindhead and Beacon Hill sites. She also worked at The Pharmacy in Grayshott, and helped out in the family businesses at various times.

Derek and Barbara's family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Springkell House in Beacon Hill for making their celebration special by hosting a lovely garden tea party for them.

A small group of lifelong friends and family joined them for a delightful afternoon tea, with music provided by Kevin, the care home’s regular musician.