A HARDGATE couple are celebrating half a century of happy marriage filled with “love and laughter”.

William Gallacher, 74, and wife Agnes, 72, met at a friend’s party where they knew it was meant to be from the moment they were chosen to play Postman’s Knock - a game in which imaginary letters are delivered in exchange for kisses.

The pair will celebrate their golden wedding anniversary this Saturday, May 8.

Daughter Christine Gallacher said: “At 18, William asked her out on their first date to the La Scala picture house in Clydebank.

“Agnes was a nervous but sensible 16 year old. She said yes, however she wouldn’t be without the protection of her big brother Sammy.

“Needless to say William was a gentleman and Sammy was no longer needed for future dates!”

William worked in Galbraith’s and Agnes at Beattie’s Biscuit Factory in Drumchapel when they began courting.

The couple married in the spring of 1971 at St Eunan’s Chapel in Clydebank and began their celebrations with their honeymoon in Blackpool.

They returned to purchase their very own first house in Hardgate.

Since then they have expanded their family and home by having two children, Alan and Christine, and moving from a small house to a bigger one – just across the road.

Christine added: “They will celebrate their 50 years together with their family and share memories, love and laughter.

“Agnes has always said the key to a happy marriage is trust and communication and she says William is her ‘best pal.’”

Daughter Christine, son Alan, daughter in law Allison and grandsons Shaun and Ryan send their love and congratulations to William and Agnes on their golden wedding anniversary.