Diamond Wedding Celebration for Delyth and Ian Parkinson
Midlothian residents, Delyth and Ian Parkinson, celebrated their 60th Diamond Wedding Anniversary on 10 September 2026.
Midlothian Provost Cllr Debbi McCall and His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian Sarah Barron visited the couple at their home in Bonnyrigg on to present them with flowers to mark the special occasion.
A romance that began in London
Delyth and Ian first met in London in 1964 while Delyth was working as a Chartered Accountant.
Their friendship quickly grew despite Ian being based in Cornwall and Wales with the Royal Navy. By July 1965, shortly before departing on a year-long deployment aboard HMS Eagle, Ian proposed. Delyth accepted, although not before insisting he properly get down on one knee.
The couple married in Cheshire on 10 September 1966 after Ian returned from service overseas.
Building a life together
As a naval family, Delyth and Ian moved frequently during the early years of their marriage, living in locations across the UK while raising their son and two daughters.
After settling in Aberdeen, Delyth developed a successful career in accountancy, eventually co-founding her own firm. Ian later retired from the Royal Navy and went on to work in consultancy and a range of public service roles.
Both remained active in their communities throughout their careers. Delyth supported the North East of Scotland Music School and performed with the Haddo House Choral Society.
Ian held a number of voluntary leadership positions and later served as Honorary Consul for the Netherlands in northern Scotland, receiving a Dutch knighthood in recognition of his service. He was also created a Deputy Lieutenant of Kincardineshire, supporting Lord Lieutenant Carol Kinghorn.
Family achievements
The couple's children have all gone on to enjoy successful careers, including service in the RAF, accountancy and financial services.
Today they are proud grandparents to six grandchildren and enjoy keeping up with their many achievements.
Retirement and a move to Midlothian
In retirement, Delyth and Ian pursued a shared love of sailing, spending several years exploring the Baltic.
In 2020 they moved to Bonnyrigg, settling into what is now their 16th home.
Sixty years together
After six decades of marriage, family life, public service and adventure, Delyth and Ian continue to enjoy life together in Midlothian, surrounded by family and fond memories of the journey they have shared.
In the picture
From left to right: Midlothian Provost Cllr Debbi McCall, Ian Parkinson, Delyth Parkinson, and His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Midlothian Sarah Barron.