A LOVED-UP couple celebrated 50 years of marriage - by raising £1,000 for Bolton Hospice.

Kevan and Marie Ward received about 100 donations from family and friends who attended their golden wedding anniversary party at Dunscar Conservative Club in Hardmans Lane, Bromley Cross.

Mr and Mrs Ward, both aged 70, have family and friends who have been treated by the hospice. It is estimated that the total they raised is one of the highest amounts the hospice has received this year.

The pair met in 1959, aged 15, and got married on August 15, 1964 at St Colombus RC Church in Tonge Moor.

They live in Turton and have a daughter and two grandchildren.

Mr Ward, a retired carpenter and engineer, said: “Bolton Hospice is close to us both, so we wanted to give something back to them.

“The night was an opportunity to raise money and it worked out very well. Staying together for 50 years is all about being patient with one another.

“We’re thankful to have such a good set of family and friends around us.

Mrs Ward, a retired telephone operator and receptionist, added: “Kevan and I have our own interests and I think that’s what’s kept us going — Kevan loves his motorcycles, whereas I like to play rounders and netball.

“We didn’t ask for any gifts for our anniversary, we just wanted everyone to have a good time, which is exactly what happened.”

Mr and Mrs Ward’s party featured a three-course meal and rock bands playing classics from The Beatles and The Eagles.

Steph Larkin, community fundraising assistant for Bolton Hospice, said: “I would like to congratulate Kevan and Marie on their golden wedding anniversary.

“They are a lovely couple and the amount that they have raised is one of the biggest amounts we have received this year, we hope that they inspire others to do the same.”

If you would like to donate to Bolton Hospice, please call 01204 663055.