Bert Downs just does what he's told

They say what they have to say and then move on. That is the secret to Doris and Bert Downs' 55 years of marriage.

``I just do what I'm told and don't argue,'' says Bert, smiling at Doris.

The couple say the time has flown since they first met, which has a wee bit of a twist.

Bert's brother married Doris' sister.

``It sort of just happened from there,'' says Doris.

Doris has lived in Taranaki all her life and Bert moved to Pukengahu from Waverley when he was 12.

The two farmed beef and sheep until the next generation took over and then moved to Stratford.

They still have a few sheep, fish and a trusty dog at their 1.2-hectare property.

Their sons keep them busy through the farm, with Bert being their go-to man if they need something from the vet, bones picked up for the dogs or something taken from A to B.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and now also Fridays, Bert heads down to the stock yards and helps out where he can. The young agents know if they have a question, Bert will probably have the answer.

``I've been at the stockyards since I was 5.''

Doris also helps out where she can, going to a rest home and talking to some of the residents.

``They look forward to it. It's something different for them to talk about,'' she says.

Doris and Bert have remained in Taranaki all their married life, living in Pukengahu, Eltham and have now been in Stratford for nine years. The couple still attend social functions at Pukengahu and Eltham.

``They are two marvellous little districts. The farming communities are so friendly,'' says Bert.

Their wedding anniversary was on June 20 and it was their daughter-in-law Jean who let the Stratford Press know about the occasion.

``They support everyone in their family and they are so involved in the community. I have the best parents-in-law,'' Jean said.-->