HIGHBURTON couple Ron and Evelyn Cox celebrate their golden wedding today.

And Mr Cox marked his 76th birthday yesterday.

The couple, of Burton Acres Lane, have lived in the area for 18 years.

They were born and brought up in Kirkburton.

They met while working at Moxon's fine worsted mill in Kirkburton and were married at St James's Church, Flockton.

Mr Cox served in Egypt with the Royal Army Dental Corps during the Second World War.

He was a pattern weaver at Broadhead and Graves in Kirkheaton for 18 years.

He then became senior technician in Huddersfield Polytechnic's textile department. It became the university in 1992 and he retired after 18 years in 1994.

Mrs Cox, 72, was assistant cook at the former Kirkburton Secondary Modern School for 10 years. She was then cook in charge at Turnshaws School in Kirkburton for 20 years.

Mr Cox is a keen gardener and his garden featured in the Examiner a couple of years ago. He is a former secretary of Kirburton Gardeners' Society.

He played for several local soccer teams and is now a member of Wakefield Golf Club. Mrs Cox is a keen needlewoman. They enjoy dancing and travel.

The couple, who have a son and daughter and five grandchildren, will celebrate with a meal for family and friends.