Kirkcaldy store's love search re-unites old friends

Frank and Ellen Fortune and David and Anna Herriot were the winners of Asda’s nationwide search, with both celebrating their 70th wedding anniversaries this year.

It wasn’t until the couples were invited to their local Kirkcaldy store that the celebration of love turned to a reunion, as husbands Frank and David had worked together as miners in the 1950s at Michael Colliery in East Wemyss.

They hadn’t seen each other for over 60 years and were thrilled to meet again under such special circumstances.

Stephen Gallagher, store manager at Asda Kirkcaldy, said: “We couldn’t believe it – we thought we were welcoming the couples to celebrate their milestone anniversary and it resulted in reuniting long-lost friends.

“It’s a fantastic story and truly celebrates the meaning of love – be that for partner, family or friends.”

Mr Fortune said: “We couldn’t believe we were one of the longest-married couples, and to turn up to the store and find out we were sharing the milestone with my old friend David made it even more special.

“You couldn’t make it up and I reckon we should be rewarded for longest friendship too.”

Mr Herriot added: “We were thrilled to have won after a secret nomination from our granddaughter Sandra. After it being a celebration about long-lasting love, you’d never have thought it would also result in reuniting me with a long-lost friend.

“It’s great to see that Frank and I have both had such long, happy marriages, and the opportunity to travel the world, explore and raise a family.

“We’ve certainly lots to catch up on and lots to celebrate as we both hit the 70 year marriage milestone.”

Frank and Ellen locked eyes at a Leven chip shop in 1945 at the ages of 19 and 17, with Frank winning her over with his charm and sense of humour. They married in 1947 at St Agatha’s Church, Methil, and went on to have four boys. Their family has continued to grow and they have 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

David and Anna met dancing the night away at the Jubilee Dance Hall in Leven in 1946. They married the following year at Innerleven Parish Church, Methil, when David was 21 and Anna was 19.

They have lived in Methil throughout their married lives, staying in their current home since 1954 and raising their two sons. Their family now stretches to three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

To congratulate the platinum couples they were each given a bouquet of flowers and chocolates.