Vernon & Jean Thomas (centre) had a surprise 40th wedding anniversary party in Greenwich on Friday night. Married in Jean's home town of Peel they have regularly returned to the Isle of Man and Vernon competed in the first ever Millennium Way Relay. He is a world class veteran triathlon (highest placed 10th) and is going to compete in the over 65 age group in Australia. On the Isle of Man he has done many Mountain Marathons and Easter Festival reflecting the time of the year they would visit the Caleys in Peel. Jean, whose family house was next to the Town Hall in Peel and is a first cousin of Marie Lambden, ran the 1986 London Marathon and a number of half marathons. They are pictured with Rachel and Christian, their daughter and son who organised the event last night (more on the blog later). Photos at www.jeanvernon.fotopic.net - email murray@manxathletics.com for password
