A daily argument is the key to a long and happy marriage.

That is the message from Sybil and Norman Cross, who live in Wantage Nursing Home and have just celebrated 70 years of wedded bliss.

The couple met when they were at school together in Grove, and a teenage romance blossomed.

During the Second World War, Mr Cross served in the Royal Armoured Corps while Sybil Shaw, as she was before she married, worked in service in Grove.

They were married at Wantage Register Office on September 27, 1941, aged 18 and 19, and set up home in Green View, before moving on to Wick Green.

Asked how the couple kept together for such a long time, Mrs Cross said: “Arguing every day and making sure Norman does as he's told.”

After being demobbed, Mr Cross worked as a lorry driver while Mrs Cross stayed at home to raise their two children, while supplementing their income as a dressmaker.

Mr Cross would often be away from home during the week, while their home in Grove would be filled with material for new dresses and garments for alteration.

Mrs Cross was well-known as a seamstress in the village, working on bridesmaid and wedding dresses as well as simpler items.

While Mrs Cross is no longer able to hold a needle, she said she still had a keen eye for sloppy needlework.

They have three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and celebrated their platinum wedding at the nursing home with family and friends on Tuesday.

The couple spent their entire lives living in Grove until Mr Cross moved into Wantage Nursing Home in December 2010, followed by his wife in March.

Home manager Rosemary Hutton said: “Since they arrived earlier this year, Norman and Sybil have really become a part of our little community here at Wantage.

“They are such a lovely couple and I’m so pleased for them to have reached such an amazing milestone.”

Both come from large families, with Mrs Cross one of four children and Mr Cross one of eight.