Like so many couples, David and Joy Donald’s paths first crossed at The Moorings ballroom in Largs many moons ago, and love blossomed.

Decades later, the happy couple are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary this week.

Now living in Gateside Street, West Kilbride, the 50 years appear to have flown by, and a celebration with family and friends was held on Tuesday to mark the milestone.

Asked about the secret of their long marriage, Joy said: “I think it has to be - give and take! We have shared interests such as bowling, and David used to be the treasurer of West Kilbride Bowling Club. I like to read, and I am a big fan of Strictly Come Dancing on the TV.” And of course, dancing played a big part in how David and Joy both met, at the iconic dancefloor on Largs seafront which is still often recalled.

The Castlevecchi owned Moorings building was a regular meeting place for young romantics in the 50s, 60s and 70s, before closing in the 80s.

Joy remarked; “Oh I was always at the Moorings, it was a great place for meeting people, and I loved it. I still like the dancing!” The couple, both aged 72, have three grown-up children - Sharon and Julia, who live in Kilwinning, and John, who lives in Largs.

David is a former farmer at Woodhead, West Kilbride, while Joy worked on the counter at West Kilbride Post Office for 20 years.

They were both married at St John’s Church in Largs in 1965 by minister Morton Mauchline. Joy grew up in Largs, and father John Park used to work for Largs Town Council.

David and Joy have eight grandchildren - three boys and five girls -which keeps both Joy and David very busy.