Pathhead Couple Celebrate 60 Years of Marriage with Royal Congratulations

A Pathhead couple who first met as teenagers through their local church youth group have celebrated 60 years of marriage, marked by a special visit from Midlothian Provost Councillor Debbi McCall and the Deputy Lieutenant of Midlothian, The Hon Harriet Dalymple.

Congratulations from The King

Sana and Tony Forrest, who married on 8 October 1966 at Liberton Northfield Church of Scotland in Edinburgh, were presented with flowers and a congratulatory message from His Majesty King Charles III to mark their diamond wedding anniversary.

Lasting friendships

The couple's story began at a Youth Fellowship held at a church hall in The Inch, Edinburgh, where they became part of a close-knit circle of friends. As friendships blossomed into romances, Sana and Tony found each other and began a journey together that has now spanned six decades. Remarkably, they still keep in touch with some of the friends who shared those early years.

Loving family

Over the course of their marriage, Sana and Tony have built a loving family. They are proud parents to sons Marc and Paul and grandparents to Jasmine and Summer, who have brought them joy over the years.

Treasured memories

Their shared love of travel has taken them across the world, including trips to Canada and Alaska and cruises throughout the Mediterranean. Family holidays in Malta, Cyprus and Greece also created many treasured memories. More recently, they have enjoyed spending time closer to home, with visits to family in Derby and caravan holidays in Ayr and Aviemore. One particularly memorable experience for Tony was getting the chance to get up close to his favourite animals, tigers, and even feed a snow leopard.

Moved ot Pathhead

In 2016, Sana and Tony moved to Pathhead, where they renovated their home and turned their passion for gardening into a beautiful garden that remains a source of pride and enjoyment. Both are active members of the Pathhead Horticultural Society, taking part in outings and helping support community projects.

An honour to meet the couple

Provost Debbi McCall said: "It was a privilege to visit Sana and Tony and help celebrate this remarkable milestone. Reaching 60 years of marriage is a wonderful achievement and a testament to the love, commitment and friendship they have shared throughout their lives together.

More memories to come

"Their story is full of family, community spirit, adventure and lasting friendships. On behalf of myself, the Lord-Lieutenant and everyone in Midlothian, I wish them a very happy diamond wedding anniversary and many more happy memories together."

Congratulations

The Hon. Harriet Dalrymple Deputy Lieutenant of Midlothian joined the Provost in presenting the royal message and flowers on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant, helping to make the occasion a memorable celebration for the couple and their family.

In the picture

Sana and Tony Forrest are pictured in the centre with Provost Debbi McCall to the left and the Deputy Lieutenant of Midlothian, The Hon Harriet Dalymple on the right