Janis and Robbie Laird, who have been together since their teenage years, marked their diamond wedding anniversary with a special celebration at the Beacon in Gorebridge. The couple, married on 30 September 1966, were presented with flowers and a congratulatory message from The King by Provost Debbi McCall and Deputy Lieutenant Val Cameron.
The Lairds, who have lived in Newtongrange or Gorebridge for their entire lives, have remained active in community life. Since retiring, Robbie has dedicated his time to volunteering with local groups, including the development and construction of the Gorebridge Beacon, where he also served as a trustee and Chair. He is also the current chair of the Mining Institute of Scotland Trust and actively promotes the National Mining Museum.
Janis, who had a career in primary teaching and served as headteacher at Mayfield nursery school, has more recently enjoyed looking after her grand-daughters, Christy and Lily. Robbie began his career as an apprentice electrician at the Lady Victoria Colliery, later moving into management with British Coal and becoming a chartered engineer and managing director for companies including North British Steel Group and Progress Rail.
“"It has been fantastic to help celebrate such a significant milestone with Janis and Robbie. They’ve built a wonderful life together here over an incredible six decades of marriage - and given so much of themselves to the community with their commitment to public service and volunteering. I’m sure everyone in Midlothian will join me in wishing them both a very happy diamond wedding anniversary and many more happy times together."
Provost McCall added that the couple had "given so much of themselves to the community with their commitment to public service and volunteering." The couple, who have a daughter, Jan, and grandchildren Christy and Lily, also share a passion for travel, having had numerous opportunities during Robbie's later career.
