1. When did you first meet and how long has it been since?

We met in March 1979 and it has been 35 years since we’ve been together. (Married for 33 years out of those 35 years). It was a Saturday night and we arranged to meet outside a local gent outfitter as Paul had no idea what I looked like. I had to give him details of the outfit that I would be wearing on that night.

Yvonne - I had seen Paul before at work but for him it was a blind date.
Paul - It was a blind date for me.

2. What was the first thing about your partner that you were attracted to?

Yvonne - His personality. We hit it off straight away as though we had known each other for years and this was the first time we had met.
Paul - Her smile, happy personality. I found that on our first date that we had a lot in common. This has proved over the years to be true as we still do most things together.

3. What do you think maintains a successful relationship for you both? (Friendship/physical attributes etc)

Yvonne - Honesty, always talk things out never dwell on things. Paul is not just my husband he is also my best friend. We do almost everything together.
Paul - Trust. Yvonne always tells the truth and she is always straight to the point.

4. What is the best thing you like about your partner?

Yvonne - I can rely on him (When shopping for clothes he will always give his honest opinion on what I choose).
Paul - She does not have a sense of humour and does not always see the funny side of things which is what makes me laugh - Easy going.

5. What is something you detest about your partner?

Yvonne - He is always right (he thinks so!!!!)
Paul - Her snoring; she keeps me awake at night.

6. Describe your relationship in a word?

Yvonne - Trustworthy.
Paul - Honesty.

By Hasna Saleem