Abergavenny couple Arthur and Eunice Bull can boast something in common with HM The Queen and Prince Philip - the Bulls have just celebrated their 70th (platinum) anniversary with the royal couple marking theirs next year.

Arthur, aged 90, and Eunice, aged 87 met when he was on leave from the army and she from her duties with the ATS and married at Abergavenny Registry Office after a brief romance on April 11 1946.

“Arthur proposed to me completely out of the blue over the phone,” said Eunice. “I was absolutely astounded but I thought it would be something new and said yes!

“He always took control and when you’re young that’s lovely. He’s still a bit bossy now!

“We got married in uniform. It was a no frills affair. Then he went back to Germany and I went back to my base.

“I’d originally joined the ATS because I wanted to see the world - but in the end I only saw Aldershot!”

After Arthur’s demob the newly-weds lived for a while in a room in Tudor Street before moving to Derwen Way where they’ve remained ever since.

For a number of years both worked at Coopers Filters - Arthur as a carpenter, Eunice on the shop floor.

Later, after being made redundant, Arthur worked for the council, teaching carpentry to apprentices.

“Our favourite hobby was sequence dancing,” said Eunice.

“We were taught by Nina Oakey and used to go to dances three or four times a week, not just in Abergavenny but in places like Usk, Brynmawr, Gilwern and Llanarth. We particularly liked doing the tango.

“We eventually had to give up when Arthur had the first of two strokes in 2003.”

For years the couple also used to enjoy spending the winter months on holiday in Spain.

“It’s hard to imagine we’ve been married 70 years, it’s surprising how quickly time passes,” said Eunice. “But we’ve had a really happy life together.”

The couple are keen to thank all the friends and well-wishers who have sent them cards and gifts to mark their special milestone.