They may have been dating other people when they first met. 

But for Tim Chittock and his wife Carol, the "immediate, electric attraction” they encountered was undeniable. 

The son of a farmer, Mr Chittock first met his future wife when she was dating one of his best friends. He was also going out with another woman when the couples met for the first time at Diss swimming pool. 

Eastern Daily Press: Tim and Carol Chittock on their wedding dayTim and Carol Chittock on their wedding day (Image: Supplied)

Mr Chittock, 85, christened Kenneth Charles but always known as Tim, recalled there was an “immediate, electric attraction” between him and Carol. 

After a few more nights out as a foursome, they quickly ditched their partners and got together. 

Sixty-four years later, they both agree their love is “as strong as ever”. 

The couple celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary with a party for family and friends at Oaklands Care Home in Scole, near Diss. The team surprised them with a personalised vase and a bouquet of flowers. 

Eastern Daily Press: Tim and Carol ChittockTim and Carol Chittock (Image: Supplied)

A twin, Mr Chittock, an Oaklands resident, was born in Bedingfield, near Eye, in 1937. 

He went to Bedingfield Primary School, then Debenham High School, and worked in agriculture throughout his life. 

His wife was born in Victoria Road, Diss, in 1944. Her family owned a tobacconist and sweet shop and used to make their own home-made ice cream. 

She went to Diss Church School, then Diss Grammar School. She spent her working life in offices and then the local doctors’ surgery. She also worked as an account manager at DFS in Diss before retiring. 

Eastern Daily Press: Tim and Carol Chittock dancing at their partyTim and Carol Chittock dancing at their party (Image: Supplied)

The couple married on April 20, 1963, at St Mary’s Church in Diss before enjoying a wedding breakfast in the nearby Corn Hall. 

They honeymooned in Torquay, Devon, and travelled there by train - a “scary and new” experience. 

The couple have two sons, John and Julian, and four grandchildren, Sophie, Lauren, Amber and Alex. 

They agree that the secret to a long and happy marriage is loving each other through everything that life throws at them.