It is often the hard times that test the strength of a marriage and that is certainly true for Golden Wedding couple Una and Frank Hodgson. 

In January Una got to 'ring the bell' after treatment for breast cancer was successful.

"Frank was my rock throughout. i could not have managed without him."

The couple, from Heather Fields in BroughtonMMoor, celebrated 50 years together on September 2.

Frank was born and brought up in Broughton Moor while Una lived in Whitehaven. They met at a Young Farmers' Club dance at Loweswater and were immediately attracted to each other.

Frank latterly worked at Stobart's for 32 years before his retirement. Prior to that, though, he was a bus driver with Cumbria Bus Services.

Una worked as a carer until arthritis made it too painful to carry on.

The couple has two children, Amanda who lives in Bedfordshire and Kevin, who lives in Workington and has provided them with four grandchildren.

"We are a real Derby and Joan. We tend to do everything together."

Frank is a member of the Workington Model Railway Clu.

"Recently, however, he has joined the archery club and is enjoying that."
Una said she is more of a stay-at-home person: "a home wife".

For her, having the grandchildren over is what she likes best.

And what about the secret to a 50-year marriage>

Supporting each other, as has happened over recent months, is definitely a large part of a successful marriage.

"But is good if you can agree and even disagree at times."

The couple celebrated their anniversary with a meal at the Ship at Dovenby with friends and family.