A DIAMOND couple who have spent 60 years together in York are celebrating their special anniversary today.

Mary and Richard Spencer, of Wilton Rise, have their diamond wedding anniversary today, and will mark the day surrounded by family.

Mary, 86, and Richard, 81, first met at the Albany dance in York and married in the city register office in 1954.

Lifestyles have changed completely since they walked down the aisle, Mary said, but both she and her husband are thankful for the good life they have had together.

Mary had just moved to York from Whitby with her family when the couple first met, while Bradford-born Richard had come to the city for work as a painter and decorator.

They stayed in York and raised both their children Stephen, 58, and Margaret, 55. They are now grandparents to four and great-grandparents to eight.

Margaret said: "My parents are brilliant. They have always been there for us and always supported us, and we love them."

The family are planning a surprise celebration with champagne, balloons and a telegram of congratulations from the Queen this afternoon.