The secrets to a long lasting marriage are patience, understanding and lots of love, according to a local couple who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last week.

Aurthur (Wookie) and Lillian Wilson said they thanked God for allowing them to see this milestone in their lives.

"Yes, we've been hooked for quite a while,'' said 74-year-old Mr. Wilson, "and we've been happy most of that time.'' They said they have seen a lot of "ups and downs'' in their half century union and believed people in today's marriages needed to exercise more patience when marital problems arise.

"Youngsters are so quick to divorce nowadays,'' Mr. Wilson said. "If Lillian and I had a fuss, we dealt with it together, not run to a lawyer to get a divorce.'' The Wilsons' longevity not only was a trade mark in their marriage, but also in the working community as well.

Mrs. Wilson worked for the Bermuda Industrial Union for over 40 years until her retirement at age 65 and Mr. Wilson worked for the Corporation of Hamilton for 15 years.

At age 73, Mrs. Wilson said she missed her time spent at the BIU and has tried to keep active since her retirement.

But she noted that at times it had been difficult not being in the day to day work world.

"Soon as I went 65, they made me redundant,'' she said. "I get tired of staying at home sometimes, but Wookie and I depend on each other so it's good that we are able to spend these years together.'' Mr. Wilson, who is a fishing enthusiast, said he and his wife did not have any special plans for their Golden Wedding anniversary and spent a quiet celebration with close friends and relatives.

"We have one son and he has been a God send to us,'' Mrs. Wilson said. "We don't usually go out anywhere.'' As they reminisced about their wedding at Wesley Methodist Church 50 years ago, Mr. Wilson said he was eagerly looking forward to spending the next 50 years with his wife.

"As long as I have breath in my body, she doesn't have to worry,'' he said, "because I'll take care of her and I'm not going anywhere.