DIAMOND couple Annie and Lewis Bloomer have waltzed through life together after meeting at a dance in Cradley Heath.

Devoted Lewis, aged 78, even switched jobs from being a chain striker to a foundry worker to be alongside his wife until they started their family.

The couple, of Downing Close, Blackheath, had five children, but sadly lost their eldest daughter to cancer, aged 55, in 2012. They also have nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Colley Gate born and bred Annie, aged 81, is suffering from Alzheimer’s, but when the couple were younger their favourite pastime was dancing – all kinds, said Lewis, from ballroom to rock ‘n’ roll, even barn dancing.

Lewis, who was born in Cradley Heath and raised in Darby End, Netherton, spent 36 years in foundry work.

His secret to a long and happy marriage is “give and take” and always let your spouse think your idea was theirs.