A BROADSTONE couple, who were married for more than half a century, have died within a fortnight of each other.

Jack Deeks was born in Bermondsey and trained as a gardener with the London parks department.

He lost an eye in a childhood accident but never let this hold him back, moving to Poole after the Second World War. Pat was born in Salisbury and moved to Poole as a child, attending Oakdale Primary School and Parkstone Grammar School for Girls.

Jack first saw Pat on a bus. He invited her out and, as they say, the rest is history. While Jack worked for Kinson Pottery, Pat had a long career with the Norwich Union Insurance company (now part of Aviva).

They made their home in Broadstone for over 50 years and had no children.

They took up ballroom dancing but Latin American was their speciality, travelling across southern England taking part in competitions.

They also enjoyed cruising holidays and, in later years, walking with their close friends Val and Mike Goodall.

Following a stroke Jack moved to Delph Nursing Home in Broadstone. He was followed shortly after by Pat. They spent the last 18 months of their lives there, being well looked after.

Pat died on the March 28 and Jack passed away on April 12. Their joint funeral service was held at St George’s Church, Oakdale on April 19, followed by their burial at Poole Cemetery.