Thatcham couple, John and Sylvia Cummins, celebrate 60 years of wedded bliss

A THATCHAM couple are celebrating 60 years of wedded bliss today (Thursday).

Silvia and John Cummins celebrate their diamond anniversary milestone after marrying on September 21, 1963.

And among the well-wishes they received, was a very special card – with congratulations from King Charles III.

Their daughter Tracey Collins told reporter Imogen Uwins about her parents’ beautiful love story.

For Mr Cummins, Mrs Cummins caught his eye immediately.

She was working with his sister Mary at Reed Corrugated Cases Ltd in Thatcham and their friendship was what introduced Mrs Cummings to him.

Their first date was to the pictures, however since Mrs Cummins is deaf, she wouldn’t have got as much out of it as Mr Cummins, Mrs Collins joked.

They got engaged when Mrs Cummins was 21, but unfortunately for Mr Cummins “he had to wait five years to marry her”, Mrs Collins said.

But, she said that “their love is still as fresh as the day they got married”.

“My dad absolutely idolises her,” she added.

Since their wedding day 60 years ago, they have had two children – daughter Tracey and son Mark, who died in 2019.

As well as a loving family, Mr and Mrs Cummins enjoyed travelling, having visited many countries such as the US, Mallorca and Singapore.

They have visited Australia about 10 times and spent their ruby wedding celebration there.

Their diamond, however, is being spent much more locally, with a family celebration at The Spotted Dog pub in Cold ash.

They both grew up in the area; Mr Cummins was born in Snelsmore and Mrs Cummins in Thatcham and they have remained here ever since, raising a family and taking part in a range of local activities such as coffee mornings.

Their anniversary day plans involve the pub meal and much appreciated family time.