Gosport couple couldn't imagine life without each other after 65 years of marriage

Frances and David Camp on holiday in Spain five years ago. | Other 3rd Party

From play mates to soulmates, David and Frances Camp have been on quite a journey and now they’re celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary.

Frances smiles and says: ‘We met as kids. We played together in Gosport. He lived next door but one to my aunty.’

Originally from Malta, Frances, née Collins, moved to England when she was a teenager. Her father was in the armed forces and her mother was Maltese and she had a happy childhood.

‘I did miss Malta at first, especially the weather,’ quips Frances, 83. ‘But when your parents are here, it makes it easier.’

Frances and Dave Camp walking down to Stokes Bay five years ago. | Other 3rd Party

David and Frances started dating when they were 16, and at 18, David asked Frances’ father for her hand in marriage.

‘I got married when I was 18 and got permission from my father,’ she added.

The couple tied the knot on March 26, 1955, at Gosport Church in front of 30 guests. They had their reception at Sea Horse Hall, which is sadly no longer there.

‘I had my daughter Debbie when I was 19 and my son Martin when I was 22,’ explains Frances.

‘I worked in supermarkets all of my life. From Tescos to Waitrose, I did a lot of them.

‘David also did a variety of jobs. He worked for the government, for the dockyard and the post office.’

The Camps loved to travel and took their children camping in Europe several times when they were younger. In their later life, they bought a caravan and carried on exploring.

‘I loved Italy, it’s an amazing place.

Frances laughs and says: ‘We drove all the way back to Malta once because my mother would not get on a plane.’

To celebrate their previous wedding anniversaries, Frances and David have been living the high life in Las Vegas or sunning themselves on cruise ships. Unfortunately this year will be different, but they’re sure they will celebrate it properly soon with their children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

‘We’re indoors at the moment,’ explains Frances.

‘We will have to wait and see what we can do this year. We’re very lucky with our family.’

Reminscing about the past 65 years together, Frances smiles and says: We’re very proud we have been married 65 years.

‘I still wouldn’t be without him and we still keep going.’