CHARLIE Barker went to town for his ruby anniversary by throwing a party for relatives and friends.

But the bash at Newton Abbot's Keyberry Hotel on Friday did not celebrate the 69-year-old's years of wedded bliss but 40 years of happy divorce.

His decree nisi from then wife Terri became final on December 20, 1972, and Charlie said the first two or three years hurt.

'But I got used to the idea of being single. I can do what I want, when I want and I don't have to answer to anyone. I suppose I became selfish really.