Coronavirus cancels couple's 65th wedding anniversary party - but they still find a way to celebrate occasion

They were wed in Christ Church, Ashbrooke, on July 27, 1955. Anthony Eden had just replaced Winston Churchill as Prime Minister and Alma Cogan was at number one with Dreamboat.

Sheila’s surname was Brown when they first met. They would regularly attend the Regent Cinema in Grangetown and make frequent Sunday trips along the coast.

John, 89, was a senior assistant director at Sunderland’s Public Works Department. Sheila, 90, was a primary school teacher at Commercial Road and Barnes among other schools. She eventually became a special educational needs teacher.

They had two children, Patricia and Stephen and now have five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

They used to enjoy indoor bowls and dancing. Sheila is a talented flower arranger and has organised displays at Durham Cathedral. She remains chair of the Sunderland Floral Art Club and set up the display for the 80th anniversary of St Nicholas’ Church, near their Barnes home.

Sadly their plans for a big party were hampered by coronavirus.

John said: “We couldn’t do a lot. We wanted to book a meal somewhere, but we had some friends round for cake and wine in the back garden.

“We planned to have a party at Penshaw Masonic Hall. If things settle down we’ll have it later in the year.”

The Robsons say their secret to a happy marriage is teamwork.

John said: “Love each other and look after each other. Work as a team. It’s always teamwork.”

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