Couple set to mark Valentine's Day after nearly 70 years together

Archie Kirkland, 93 and wife Martha, 91, first met in London in the early 1950s through a mutual friend and began dating before tying the knot in May 1955.

The pair have been inseparable since, rarely spending a day apart, and in 1964, they moved to the south of Glasgow where Archie grew up.

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After nearly 70 years together, the couple are well in sync with Archie helping Martha with her mobility and Martha always reminding him what to do next.

And they said the secret to a long and happy marriage is being there for each other every day.

They will celebrate their 68th Valentine’s Day together next week at Meallmore Group’s Mearns House, Newton Mearns, East Renfrewshire.

Following a fall that resulted in a hospital stay for Martha last year, the couple moved into Mearns House in adjacent rooms.

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The home is planning a special day to treat the Kirklands with a Valentine’s Day meal and live entertainment.

Dad-of-four Archie said: “We are happy to be in Mearns House being well looked after by all the kind staff – comfortable, secure and enjoying other people's company.”

The couple's kids, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, are delighted they will get to celebrate another Valentine's Day together.

The family said: “We are so pleased that Mum and Dad really enjoy life together in Mearns House.

“The facilities are great and they take part in many of the activities on offer.

“The staff are kind and couldn’t do more for them.”

Mearns House manager, Kirsty Craig, said: “Archie and Martha set a great example for long-lasting love and the importance of supporting one another this Valentine’s Day.

“The pair are excellent company and bring a real liveliness to the home – we love welcoming their family to Mearns for visits.”