A Watford couple is celebrating 65 years of marriage today.

Jean and Ken Saunders, who have lived on the Holywell estate since 1955, received a special card from the Queen to mark the milestone anniversary.

The couple met at the Salvation Army Youth Club in north Watford in 1947 when Ken was on leave from the Royal Navy.

Ken, now 87, moved to Watford from County Durham at the age of nine. Jean, 86, has lived in the town her entire life.

After the wedding, on September 23, 1950, at St Michael's Church the couple lived in Euston Avenue before moving to a flat in High View.

Ken and Jean have two sons, Geoffrey and Barry, and three grandchildren, Laura, 17, Harrison, 15, and Matthew, 11.

After completing his national service as an able seaman, Ken worked for Odhams Press for most of his career.

Jean worked at the Town Hall for various departments, including the Borough treasury.

The couple moved to Chesham Way in 1977.

Ken a keen musician played cornet and drums played in bands and Jean raced pigeons.

Both Ken and Jean agree the highlight of their marriage has been their children and grandchildren.

Today they enjoy relaxing, gardening and spending time with Laura, Harrison and Matthew.

Ken said the best advice he could give to a couple starting their marriage was to laugh a lot and say "yes dear".

The couple will be celebrating the occasion with their family and say they are looking forward to the next landmark anniversary.