A PEMBROKE couple are to celebrate more than half a century of marriage alongside hundreds of other people attempting a world record.

Leon and Marion Charman hope to celebrate their 52nd wedding anniversary in grand style by affirming their vows with hundreds of others across the country.

The couple, who live at Slade Cross, have been instrumental in encouraging churches to participate in ‘The Big Promise’.

“Every year Marriage Week UK celebrates the promises that couples have made down the years,” said Pastor Rob James, of Westgate Evangelical Chapel, Pembroke.

“It seeks to do all it can to support those who have discovered the blessings that flow from committed, loving relationships, and this year it has challenged couples to take advantage of the opportunity to affirm their promises to each other together with hundreds of others throughout the United Kingdom.”

Some venues are holding services in the hope of setting a new Guinness World Record, but Pembroke will not be taking part in this aspect.

The world record for couples affirming their vows was set at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA, in 2009 and stands at 1,087 couples

The Big Promise Pembroke will take place at St Mary’s Church on Saturday, February 8, at 5.15pm.

The affirmation service will be conducted by Rev Roger Jones.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us as churches in the area to invite people to affirm their vows, but in addition to this it is a chance to affirm our commitment to marriage as understood by the Christian church worldwide,” he said.

An enthusiastic Leon Charman added: “It is also a chance to celebrate with others our married life-through both tough and wonderful times.”

For more information anyone contact Leon and Marion Charman on 01646 684477.