10th September 2025
Keith, born in Bishop Auckland, and Dee, born in West Cornforth, first met at The Castle Café in Bishop Auckland, where Dee made space on her seat so Keith could sit beside her. That small gesture began a lifelong journey together.
They were married on 10th September 1960 and, over the past 65 years, have built a life filled with adventure, family and love.
Keith began his working life as a coal miner at Middridge Drift (1956-1959), before serving with distinction in the Royal Air Force from 1959 to 1996, retiring as a Squadron Leader. Following his RAF career, he worked as a conference organiser at County Hall, Durham (1998-1999), and later as a part-time tutor at Finchale Training College, Durham.
Dee started her career as a machinist at Ferryhill Clothing Factory (1956-1960) before dedicating her life to being a devoted mother and home-maker.
Throughout Keith’s RAF service, the couple lived in Hong Kong, Singapore, Germany, Belgium and Northern Ireland. Between 1974 and 1979, they moved home seven times – a testament to their resilience and teamwork.
In 1996, Keith and Dee settled in Newton Aycliffe on his retirement from the RAF. Together they share many hobbies and interests – both enjoy ballroom dancing and archery, with Keith also active in painting, drawing and veterans’ woodworking groups, while Dee has played badminton at RAF Brize Norton and enjoys bridge.
The couple have been blessed with two sons, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. This year, they will celebrate their 65th Wedding Anniversary with a short holiday at a Warner’s Hotel.
When the couple were asked for the secret to a happy marriage, Keith wisely advises: “Always do what you’re told,” to which Dee quickly adds: “my advice is to make sure he does what he’s told.”
