Dockenfield Couple Celebrates 70 Years of Marriage on March 17

A couple from Dockenfield is marking a significant milestone by celebrating their platinum wedding anniversary on March 17, 2026. Harold and Diana Parratt, aged 91 and 89 respectively, will gather with family and friends at St Mary’s Church in Frensham, the same venue where they exchanged vows in 1956.

Harold and Diana first met in Dockenfield in 1960 and have remained active members of their community ever since. Harold worked as a tree feller in Bucks Horn Oak before evolving his career into gardening and later taking on a role as yard foreman at GA Day. Diana initially served as a nurse for a child in Runwick, Farnham, and dedicated time to the Red Cross, contributing to her community through various roles.

Their commitment to community events has been a vital aspect of their marriage. Their daughter, Helen Baker, reflected on the couple’s vibrant social life. “They had a very active social life until four years ago when Mum had a stroke and couldn’t drive. She used to drive people but now relies on others to take her and Dad to places,” she explained.

Despite the challenges, Harold and Diana maintain their busy schedules. They participate in multiple gatherings, including “Tea at Three” at Frensham Church on the first Monday of each month, followed by a Women’s Institute meal that evening. Every Friday, they attend coffee at Dockenfield Church and enjoy lunch at the British Legion on the fourth Wednesday.

Helen noted, “I drive up from Bridport every Monday apart from when they are out gallivanting!” This highlights the couple’s enduring spirit and commitment to staying engaged in community life.

Diana took a break from her career to focus on their children, David and Helen, but later worked at Farnham’s Key Markets supermarket. Helen added, “She was also a Sunday school teacher and did community work in Dockenfield. Eventually, she too worked for GA Day, and they were both there when they retired.”

The couple’s anniversary celebration will see several former colleagues from GA Day in attendance, demonstrating the strong bonds they have forged throughout their lives. They will also be joined by Diana’s chief bridesmaid, Muriel, who wore a striking yellow taffeta dress at their wedding in 1956.

The Parratts’ journey together, spanning seven decades, is a testament to enduring love and commitment, with their shared experiences deeply rooted in the community they cherish.