Two lovestruck pensioners¹ have finally exchanged vows² - 42 years after they got engaged.

 

David Barker and Daphne Thorp from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, spent the past four decades waiting for the perfect moment to marry.

 

Despite getting engaged just four weeks after they met at a dance in 1972, Mr Barker said the couple simply "didn't want to rush" into married life.

 

After Mrs Thorp had a heart attack last year the couple decided³ not to wait any longer, and despite her engagement ring not fitting anymore, they tied the knot yesterday.

 

Mrs Thorp said: "I suddenly realised I wasn't getting any younger. I thought, 'I'm not going to live another 40 years, let's just do it now,' and I'm glad I did."

 

The ceremony, which coincided with Mrs Thorp's 82nd birthday, was held at Huddersfield Town Hall before a reception took place at her daughter Susan's cafe in nearby village Slaithwaite.

 

Mrs Thorpe said her wedding day was "perfect".

 

She said: "Everything I had hoped for and more.

 

"It was a brilliant day and luckily the good weather has lasted."

 

"It was a brilliant day and luckily the good weather has lasted."

 

Mrs Thorpe, who has two children from her previous marriage, added: "I'm so excited to spend the rest of my life with the man of my dreams."

 

The wedding, attending by about 30 people, was in stark⁴ contrast to Mrs Thorpe's first one which she said took place in a church 60 years ago, "it was interesting to see how traditions have changed since then".

 

Before the big day, Mr Barker spoke⁵ of his unconditional⁶ love for Mrs Thorpe.

 

"She's fantastic - a great woman and I don't know what I would do without her. I've always loved her and always will."

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