Listening is key for Highland golden couple who met more than 50 years ago at apres-ski gathering
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An apres-ski gathering in the Cairngorms more than 50 years ago resulted in a happy-ever-after ending for a couple of keen young skiers.
Charles and Rita Cook, who were introduced by a friend at the Struan House Hotel in Carrbridge, have celebrated their golden wedding anniversary.
The couple, both 75, live in Old Edinburgh Road, Inverness, and have two daughters, Louise and Diane, plus two granddaughters.
Mrs Cook – born Rita MacIsaac – was originally from North Uist and learned to ski when she was a boarding pupil at the Inverness Royal Academy.
"There used to be a lot of snow in the Cairngorms from November to June," she recalled.
After leaving school, she became a technician in outpatient clinics at Raigmore Hospital.
Mr Cook, who was born at Allanfearn Farm, near Inverness, was educated at Aberlour House and then Clyde College in Largs before becoming a time-served electrician.
He ultimately became the north of Scotland service technician for Miele.
"We were instantly attracted to each other," Mr Cook said.
They married on November 21 1970 at East Church, Inverness, and had a 100-guest reception at the Drumossie Hotel.
Mrs Cook wore a white satin dress created by a designer who worked with royal designer Sir Norman Hartnell.
The couple also shared an interest as licensed radio hams, and on one occasion responded to an emergency call from a German family who were involved in an accident while travelling with their caravan on the A9 towards Inverness.
It was pre-mobile phones and the couple went to see what help they could offer the family, which included two children.
Although no one was injured, they were shaken and the Cooks persuaded them to spend a couple of nights with them until they resumed their holiday.
Reflecting on what makes a successful marriage, Mr Cook said: "Listening to each other and discussing what you want to do, or not do."
Mrs Cook added: "And just being friends."
