Mayor Mike Mitchelson marked a golden era in 2022

Mike and Anne Mitchelson have spent 50 happy years together after meeting at a party in their youth.

Their first date was at the Cosmo ballroom in Harraby, Carlisle, which was the popular venue in the late ’60s and early ’70s. Following their first night out together, they went out on a regular basis either to the Cosmo or for a quiet drink somewhere.

Two years after getting married, the couple took over the newsagents in Brampton. Anne had been a farm secretary working for Armstrong Watson but gave up her job to work in the new business venture, which meant getting up at 5.30am each day.

Mike and Anne Mitchelson on their wedding day (Image: Supplied)

She said: “In the early days it was hard work and long hours as we developed the business. Working together over the years strengthened our relationship as together we were both involved in the planning and development of the business, which was later expanded when we also took over the post office in Brampton in 1997.

“The highlights over the years of our marriage, apart from working in the business, have been our family. We had two children, Chris and Janice, who have been a major part of our lives for over 40 years. We are proud that they are both happily married. Chris and his wife Sarah are also heavily involved in the business. Janice and her husband Richard live in Cornwall. We have two, grandchildren, Abby and Jack, who are now forging their own careers.”

Mike added: “In August 2002 Anne and I had the honour and privilege, during my time as leader of the city council, of looking after Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Philip for an hour or so on their visit to Carlisle during her Golden Jubilee tour, which involved escorting them around Tullie House and the Millennium Gallery. We both found them so down to earth and humorous, making us feel comfortable and at ease in their company.

“I was also involved in the National Federation of Newsagents, twice being their national president, and could only have done this because of the support and understanding of Anne.

“I have been a councillor for 27 years and as mayor of Carlisle, appreciate the support of Anne who, as mayoress, accompanies me on the many duties the role entails, which epitomises how we work and spend time together in our lives.”

Speaking on the milestone, he said: “I don’t know where the time has gone but it is a lovely achievement to celebrate a golden wedding. We have done a lot of things together; it has been 50 great years. Obviously people have the odd difference, but you just put that aside.”

READ MORE: Cumbria Fire and Rescue 'requires improvement' at keeping people safe