A couple who got together after they were paired at a dance class will mark their 70th wedding anniversary later this month.  

Dick Hatley, and his wife Gladys, had known of one another from their school days – but that one lesson led to a union that has lasted a lifetime.  

Dick, 90, of Fordham, said: “Betty Galley’s Dance School was holding classes at Victoria Hall, in Fordham, and we were paired because of our height.  

“Gladys was 5ft7 and I was 6ft tall, and we enjoyed dancing during our younger years especially the black-tie events at the Cambridge Guildhall on New Year’s Eve.  

"She was by far the best-looking girl around, and is still my love. We married five years after getting together, and I was in the air force.” 

Ely Standard: Dick Hatley met his wife Gladys when they were paired at a dance class.Dick Hatley met his wife Gladys when they were paired at a dance class. (Image: Gladys and Dick Hatley)

Gladys’ days started early to travel from Fordham to Cambridge to work the machines at factories including the telecommunications company Pye's. 

Weeks before their wedding, Dick was part of the protection squad for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.  

They were married at the village's St Peter & St Mary Magdalene Church on June 27, 1953, and honeymooned in Torquay. 

Two years later, their daughter Glenda was born.  

They also have three grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, who are aged between two and 22. 

Many will know Dick as the former butcher at Carter Street Butchers. 

Even though he ran the business, Dick and Glenda never missed a holiday and always stayed somewhere in the UK.  

They had a caravan on the sea front at Felixstowe for 25 years.  

The church has also been an important part of their lives.  

Ely Standard: Dick Hatley, and his wife Gladys, had known of one another during their school days.Dick Hatley, and his wife Gladys, had known of one another during their school days. (Image: Courtesy of John Pryke)

When asked the secret to a happy marriage, Dick replied: “You’ve really got to love one another; it’s no good letting the love die. 

“And never go to bed on an argument, definitely make up.” 

Gladys, 89, is currently in hospital but it’s hoped the couple will be able to commemorate their platinum wedding anniversary in some way.