John and Shirley met at the Baptist Church in Victoria Road, Exmouth, Devon and finally married in 1972. Shortly after marrying they moved to Tavistock, Devon, and lived happily there for 15 years. Their two sons, John Christian and Thurstan Richard were born there, (Plymouth). In 1988 they bought the subpostoffice in Horbury Bridge, Wakefield, W.Yorks. John Christian is a driver in the army and met Pauline. They married in 1991, and have two children, Danniella Louise, and Ashley John. Their marriage fell apart and they separated in January 2001. John now has a new partner, Michelle. They have one daughter, Nell Jennifer, born 12 December 2002. Thurstan Richard is a tyre fitter and married Lisa in 1999. They have two daughters, Lucy Louise and Bethany Ann
After John's illness on 2nd March 2001, he and Shirley finally sold the post office in August 2002 and are now enjoying their retirement.