By HELEN COMPSON

Last updated 17:34, Thursday, 21 August 2008

THE past 50 years seemed to disappear in an instant when a couple returned to Hexham to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary.

Family gathering: Above, Ray and Gordon Wood pictured outside Hexham Abbey with their family (from left), April Wood, Andrew Wood, Jo Wood, Jonathan Wood, Jamie Richards, Becca Richards, Debbie Richards and Nigel Richards.

Ray and Gordon Wood were married in Hexham Abbey and held their wedding reception at the County Hotel, on Priestpopple.

Although they have lived in Nottingham for the past 45 years, Ray, who was born in Hexham, still regards herself very much as a ‘Northern lass’.

Last weekend, they brought their sons, daughter and grandchildren with them for a nostalgic visit to Tynedale.

Ray (nee Forster) was born in Hexham, and met Gordon while they were both studying at Leicester University. The couple returned to Hexham after qualifying as teachers, and Gordon taught at Ninebanks, at the small village school run by Ray’s aunt.

Their daughter, Debbie Richards, said: “They still have a lot of affection for Tynedale, and mum still has many relatives living in the district.

“Mum is so proud of her Northern roots and, despite living in Nottingham for 45 years, still classes it as home.

“We hear many stories of the young farmer club balls she used to attend.”