Newly wed at 96 and 94

Published February 2, 2002

CLAPIERS (France) Feb 1: A couple aged 96 and 94 exchanged marriage vows at their rest home in southern France Friday, becoming the oldest pair of newly-weds in the world.

Francois Fernandez, a widower who has outlived his five sons, and Madeleine Francineau, a divorcee, met five years ago when she asked him to repair a garlic press.

The religious celebration took place in the rest home’s chapel, and the mayor of Clapiers brought with him the town hall’s bust of Marianne for the subsequent civil ceremony.

On Thursday the couple received confirmation that they will feature in the next edition of the Guinness book of records.—AFP

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