Newton-le-Willows couple celebrate 77 years of marriage together

Robert 'Bob' Henry Knight, 99, and Nancy Lillian Knight, 98, from Newton-le-Willows, reached the milestone last Friday.

The couple married on August 9, 1947 at All Saints Church, in Newton-le-Willows.

Robert was the last chairman of Newton-le-Willows District Council before its abolition, and was later mayor of St Helens in 1983/84.

He served in the RAF during the Second World War and went to Egypt, and has also worked as a Justice of the Peace.

Bob, pictured with Nancy in 1946, after he had been demobbed (Image: Submitted)

He met the late Queen Elizabeth II several times, including one time as mayor when he was invited down to Buckingham Palace and when he was awarded with Maundy Money at Liverpool Cathedral.

Meanwhile, Nancy worked at the Vulcan Works, in Newton.  

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The couple have enjoyed active lives, with the many highlights of their family life including going camping as a family during the summer to destinations, including Scotland and North Wales.

The couple had two sons, including Bryan, 71, and one who has passed away.

They also have four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Four generations of the family pictured together in 2021 (Image: Submitted)

When asked what has been the key to their marriage’s longevity, Nancy said: “You have got to have patience.

“We have always done things together, and what we miss most of all is going out camping, going to all the different places.”  

Bob and Nancy on their wedding day on August 9, 1947 (Image: Submitted)

Bob added: “I’ve enjoyed married life, after 77 years you have no choice, you have to enjoy it!

“I only get told off once a day and I am just about getting used to it,” he joked.