A diamond day for Cullen couple!
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
COVID has not stopped a diamond Cullen couple from celebrating 60 years of marriage.
The current restrictions meant the planned family gathering has had to be put on hold for Lewis and Yvonne Riddoch but there was still plenty to look forward to.
Family members popped by the house to wish them all the best from outside and there was a surprise in store when Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Charles Milne visited the Riddochs and presented them with a card, flowers and a gift to mark their special anniversary.
One of those stopping by was daughter Morag Innes who said “ We had a family celebration all planned for Mum and Dad’s anniversary but that has had to be put on hold for now due to the Covid regulations.
"However, the family were all able to drop by with cards, gifts and a cake, albeit outside and socially distanced.
"We were absolutely thrilled that Deputy Lord Lieutenant Charles Milne was able to come along. We had kept it secret from Mum and Dad and they were delighted with his visit.”
Both Lewis and Yvonne come from farming stock. Lewis grew up at Barnyards of Badenyouchers, near Cornhill while Yvonne hailed from the other side of the Knock Hill, Sillyearn Grange.
Like many young people of that era, they met at a dance and were to marry at Whitehill Church in the parish of Grange.
Having farmed in the Cornhill area they moved in 1987 to Seafield Farm Cullen where they were to spend the rest of their working lives.
Lewis at 85 still enjoys helping out at the farm which son Stuart now farms. The family were very proud when at 80 he passed his advanced driving test.
Yvonne ran a B&B when they lived on the farm, she now enjoys her garden and walking.
The couple have three children, Gillian, Morag and Stuart, son-in-law Mark and daughter-in law Janice. They have also been blessed with three grandchildren Emma, Lauren and Keiran and great grandson Theo. They are looking forward to the arrival of another great grandchild next April.
Wishing the diamond pair all the best, Mr Milne added: “I was delighted to meet and congratulate Lewis and Yvonne on their special day and wish them continued happiness and good health for the future.”
