Who would have thought a mug of hot Vimto would lead to 60 years of wedded bliss?
Well, that’s certainly the case for Kilmarnock couple Bobby and Ena Bell.
The pair were married on August 22, 1959 and marked their diamond wedding milestone last Thursday.
The couple met in the Queen’s Cafe, just off King Street in Kilmarnock in 1958.
Ena waited tables and one day she served Bobby a hot Vimto. Upon seeing her, he was completely smitten.
‘Winching’ followed for a short time before the question was popped, with the couple getting married at the tender ages of 22 and 18, respectively, at the local registry office in the town.
They soon settled into married life in Bonnyton Square, Bonnyton. Three daughters followed over the next few years – Carol, Irene and Christine.
Daughter Irene Rae said: “Bobby was a hard-working signalman on the railway and Ena worked various jobs on a part and full-time basis to fit in with the needs of their growing family. Times were tough, much like today, but they were able to meet and support their children’s needs, wants and aspirations.
“There was not much disposable income however there was never a shortage of love or laughter in the Bell household.
“The family moved to Hillbank Road for a few years then to Onthank Drive for many years where we sisters grew, matured and flew the nest.”
With that, Bobby and Ena became grandparents to their beloved grandson Darren.
They have now come full circle and are spending their twilight years in the very place their married life began – Bonnyton.
Irene added: “We three sisters have been very blessed to have had love, stability, support and laughter over the decades.
“Mum and dad, happy 60th wedding anniversary. Love always Carol, Irene and Christine.”
