Golden couple from Skegness celebrate 50th anniversary

Marie and Derek Burgin moved to the Skegness area from Sheffield 27 years ago after enjoying caravan holidays here.

They now live in Roman Bank, close to their married son, Peter, and their grandchildren.

Retired builder Derek said: “We always enjoyed coming to Ingoldmells on holiday and went fishing at Wainfleet.

“Their was some land with a cottage that was falling down and I offered to build a bungalow as I was a builder.

“We lived there for eight years and then moved to Skegness, where we opened a knitting machine shop.”

At the time knitting was quite the craze and the couple ran two night classes, becoming a leader of fashion in the town.

Marie said: “When Lady Di (Diana, Princess of Wales) wore the sheep sweater, we made one and people went crazy for them.

“We also did the liquorice allsorts sweater and that was really popular too.

“Two of our fine knit suits went on cruises – we were always really busy but like everything you have to work at it.”

Since retiring in 1992, the couple enjoy having more time to fish and going on walks.

They celebrated their anniversary with a family meal with Peter, his wife, Sandra, and grandchildren Aimee (20) and Emma (18).

And their recipe for a happy marriage. Marie said: “We don’t have many arguments. It’s knowing when not to say anything - being tolerant really.”

Derek said: “We always go out together - even when I played darts Marie always came.

“I think when people start going out separately, that’s when the problems start. We’re joined at the hip.”

“And I have a new one,” Marie added.