IT wasn't exactly love at first sight for Winsford couple Betty and Clifford Hassall but 50 years after tying the knot they both agree they picked the cream of the crop.

The couple, who celebrate their golden wedding anniversary on Friday, met when milkman Clifford, 72, delivered the milk to Betty's family when she was just 19 years old.

Clifford said: "I used to deliver milk on the horse and cart and I said to my friends 'I'm going to go out with her'."

Betty, 74, added: "Yes but it didn't quite work out like that. It was my dad who really knew him. I just thought that he was a nice lad."

But over time romance blossomed for the couple, from Nunhouse Drive, and they eventually started courting.

When Clifford was called up for National Service to serve with the Royal Signals, Betty wrote to him every day.

On Clifford's return the pair married at Christ Church, Wharton, and a few years later their son Ken was born.

Betty enjoys crosswords and listening to Tom Jones and Roy Orbison, while Clifford likes pottering in the garden and looking after his cockatiels.

Although they say they do not share the same hobbies, they both love spending time on holiday with Ken, daughter-in-law Kathryn and grandson Jason.

Betty said: "Anyone who says they don't row isn't telling the truth. You need to have your big rows, clear the air and then make up and forget it.

"Never let your husband go to work not speaking to you."

Clifford added: "You've got to work together. It's all about a little bit of give and take."