News Shopper has been responsible for many a love story in its 50 year history - none more so than this Mottingham couple who met through our very own dating pages almost 18 years ago.

Clive Richardson, 69, and wife Barbara, 59, met through the News Shopper's Two's Company adverts in August 1997 and were engaged within a month.

The loved-up pair from Chilham Road tied the knot at Lewisham Register Office on June 24 1998.

Following several failed relationships Mr Richardson turned to the News Shopper for help and placed his second advert in the paper.

News Shopper:

A story published in the News Shopper in July 1998

It read: 'Soulful male seeking non-smoking lady aged 40 to 50 to share common interests.'

Mrs Richardson, who has been married once before, called the Two's Company browse line and fell in love with her future husband's voice immediately.

She said at the time: "I heard the voice, loved the voice and knew he was a sincere, genuine kind of gentleman."

The couple, who enjoy watching cookery programmes on television together, have shared their secrets of a happy marriage.

News Shopper:

Mr Richardson, who is a keen musician and football fan said: "Laughter is very important - sometimes we'll be laughing so much that I expect the laughter police to come round and see what is going on.

"It's also important to have your own interests and do your own thing."

The pair also spoke of their love of the paper that brought them together.

"News Shopper still comes through our door and we have a flick through.

"My wife always has the website up on her mobile phone so she updates me on everything that's going on."

Tell us your story:

We will be bringing you many more News Shopper love stories over the next few months.

Visit newsshopper.co.uk/shopperat50 for more.

Did you meet your partner through News Shopper?

Call the newsroom on 01689 885734 or email shopper50@london.newsquest.co.uk