![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2017/03/12becomm90sl_99220.jpg)
St Patrick’s Day was a special day for Mr John Newman this year.
The day marked the Elphin Lodge retirement village resident’s 90th birthday.
Born and raised in London, Mr Newman first moved to South Africa in 1949 on a three-year contract for AECI in Modderfontein.
A keen sportsman, Mr Newman enjoyed hockey, tennis and swimming.
At the end of his contract, Mr Newman returned to the UK on a Union Castle ship via the East Coast, which in those days took about six weeks.
While on board he met his wife-to-be, Moira.
Last year the couple celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary.
After returning to SA Mr Newman started working at Afrox, which provided him with the opportunity to travel overseas.
When he retired at the age of 70 he was free to indulge in his hobby of travelling fully and toured the world with his wife.
Mr Newman continued to play league tennis and later took up bowls.
He has always been a family man, taking a great interest in the lives of his two children and grandchildren.
The Newmans are happy Elphin Lodge residents.
“We have made lots of new friends here,” said Mr Newman.
https://www.citizen.co.za/bedfordview-edenvale-news/308091/celebrating-55-years-of-love/