A COUPLE had the surprise of their life when their golden wedding anniversary was marked with a race at Peterborough Greyhound stadium named in their honour.

Dave and Flo Pope, of Chatteris, celebrated their big day by watching the racing while enjoying a champagne supper - and they presented a trophy to the winner of the Dave and Flo 50th Anniversary Stakes.

Flo said: “It was a wonderful surprise, we were told we were going to watch the racing, but neither of us knew about the race being named in our honour until we took a look at the programme.”

The couple’s son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Sally, had organised the race sponsorship - and Sally was thrilled to win �192.10 in the couple’s celebration race after backing the first three dogs.

Dave said: “We had a smashing night. The winning trainer also gave us the crystal trophy because he already had plenty.

“It was the first time I had ever been to watch greyhound racing but I really enjoyed it, I was like a kid at Christmas. Even though I didn’t win on the races I had a brilliant night.”

Flo did a little better in choosing the winners. She said: “I won some and lost some, and ended up by breaking even.”

Dave, 72, and Flo, 71, who have three sons, have lived in Horsegate Gardens, Chatteris, for almost six years. They were married in West Ham on March 30 1962 and are both retired hospital cleaners.

Flo enjoys reading and painting, and Dave is a keen gardener, and a member of Chatteris Conservative Club.

Their celebrations also included a party with friends, and a meal with members of their family.

Flo enjoys reading and painting, and Dave is a keen gardener, and a member of Chatteris Conservative Club.

One of the couple’s presents included a copy of the Daily Express from the day of their wedding. Flo said: “My horoscope for that day said don’t take on any commitments, but it was a bit too late for that.”

Looking back over the last 50 years, Flo said: “The time has gone very quickly; I think the secret of a successful marriage is to take every day as it comes.”