A music loving couple who met behind the scenes at an operatic group, are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary in Largs on Monday.

Elizabeth and Colin MacKenzie, both 79, of Alexander Avenue, fell in love after their paths crossed as members of the chorus in the production of “Desert Song”.

Elizabeth, from Mossend in Motherwell, had moved to the area because her father, George Manson, was station master at Largs Railway Station, while Colin was born and bred in Fairlie, near The Causeway.

Colin worked for his own father, Jock, as a plumber and slater to trade in the village, before he went on to become janitor at Largs High School, He then became plant attendant at Hunterston ‘B’ Power Station.

Elizabeth had a varied career, working in the town clerk’s office in Largs, before being secretary at the parks office, Inverclyde National Sports Centre, and the Marine and Curlinghall Hotel - where the couple held their wedding reception. They were married at St John’s Church on 4 May 1965.

Elizabeth was also a private piano teacher, and music is very much in their veins. One of their favourite hobbies is going to brass band competitions and concerts.

She also worked in Montgomery Clark, wrapping gifts and cutting the material that people wanted for expensive ornaments. Colin was involved with a cycling group which formerly existed in the town - the Largs Wheelers - and helped at the Largs Museum. He was heavily involved in the cub scout movement in Largs and Fairlie for 41 years, occupying a range of different roles, including leade. He enjoys a range of, including golf, bowls and putting. Colin was also a helper at East Park Children’s Home, which formerly was based at Bowen Craig. It was demolished in the early 1990s to make way for Pencil View.

Elizabeth was a member of a camera club, church choir and Sunday school, and also helped form the original Bambi group. She also helped with the cub scouts in Fairlie, as well as stitch and craft.

Both have been members of the Opportunities in Retirement group in Largs. Colin’s community work extended to helping the church lads brigade from Northern Ireland, who visited Largs High School when he was janitor, and still keeps in close contact with the group in Lisburn.

Their secret to a long marriage is respect and patience.

Daughter Fiona, who lives in Largs, said: “They are a very happy-go-lucky couple, and both are very friendly. They have plenty of time for people. You see them going everywhere together, and they are celebrating their anniversary by going on a cruise to Norway later in the year.” Colin and Elizabeth also have a son Stuart, who lives in Bridge of Weir, and three grandchildren, Jessica, 10, and twins Caitlin and Cameron.