Ipswich couple receive card from King for 65th anniversary

Derek and Kathy Wylie, 88 and 89 respectively, celebrated their blue sapphire jubilee on Friday at Whitehouse Baptist Church with a two-course lunch surrounded by friends and family. 

The event at the church was held at the ActivFriend hub, a charity hub which provides vital connections for people who attend and run by Suffolk charity ActivLives which runs every Friday. 

Derek and Kathy Wylie (middle) celebrated their 65th anniversary (Image: ActivLives) The couple are regular attendees at the hub, which has been running for the past seven years, and their daughter Melissa Wylie also attends as a volunteer at the friendly group.

To mark the celebration, the couple even received a anniversary card from King Charles and Queen Camilla. 

Melissa Wylie said: ”It has been 65 years of wedded bliss, they have loved each other more, as every day has passed, it is a very loving marriage.”

King Charles was amongst those who wished the couple well (Image: NQ) The festivities included refreshments, cake and a homemade two-course lunch, with all welcome. 

Alison Pearson, the community engagement officer at ActivLives said: “Derek and Kathy are a really lovely, happy couple who really enjoy coming to Activfriends on a Friday.

Derek and Kathy Wylie with their card (Image: ActivLives)

"Kathy says it is the highlight of her week and she loves coming. She also wishes we had activities every day of the week as she enjoys it so much.

"This weekly group has gone from strength to strength, with members supporting each other outside the hub, and we are excited to continue with these sessions, and offer additional opportunities for new members.”