A couple are celebrating their diamond anniversary with their large family.

Geoffrey and Janet Clarke of Toms Lane, Kings Langley, were married on August 18, 1956 and 60 years later the couple are still happily married.

Mr Clarke met his wife when he worked at the Rosewood Stores in Aldenham Road, Bushey, and Mrs Clarke was also employed at the same store.

The couple married at All Saints’ Church in South Oxhey and in the original report published by the Watford Observer back in 1956 it was said what made her day more memorable was it was on her 21st birthday.

Mrs Clarke said: “It is a double celebration each year. This year I will be 81 and it is the same day as our diamond anniversary.

“We met when I was 15 and he was 17. Geoffrey then went into the army and did two years’ service.

“The secret to a long and happy marriage is to give and take for both of us. There are no problems between us. We are doing OK. I would not change anything. Everything is lovely.

“On the day of our anniversary we went out for a meal and had a quiet day. The big celebration is on Saturday.”

Although she does not own her wedding dress anymore she wore a ballerina length dress in white net with a short veil and cream roses in her bouquet.

After the reception the newlyweds left for a honeymoon near Portsmouth.

To celebrate the anniversary and birthday Mr and Mrs Clarke’s four children, their partners, eight grandchildren and one great grandchild have organised a big family garden party.

Although Mrs Clarke is leaving the organising of the party to her children she made sure everything was suitable for the big day.