This diamond couple spent their honeymoon in York and ended up living here for 55 years.

Charles and Gladys Stewart, of Heath Moor Drive, off Heslington Lane, married in Sheffield 60 years ago today and came to stay with Charles's mum in York for a few days honeymoon.

Gladys, now 81, said: "We even spent a few romantic days at Scarborough, but it was during the war so things were difficult."

The couple met at a dance when Charles, who likes to be called Fred, was in the Army. They finally moved to York in 1946 after the war.

Fred, 82, worked at Rowntrees for 48 years in the chocolate mixing department, but on his retirement he took up the post as village lengthsman in Heslington.

Fred swept the village and kept it spick and span for 15 years. And his hard work led to an MBE.

He was then surprised by his family and Michael Aspel, when he was presented with the red book for This Is York Life in September 1998.

Gladys said: "It was an occasion we shall never forget. Fred was tricked into going into the village to sweep for a so-called documentary when Michael Aspel sprung the surprise.

"Mind you the hardest part was keeping it a secret from him in the weeks leading up to the event. I'm sure he would have worked it out had he not been so deaf.

"I've never told him any lies, so I found the whole secret very difficult. But he claims he never knew what we were up to!"

Fred and Gladys have two daughters, Elizabeth and Jean, three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. They will be celebrating their Diamond Wedding with them and friends at a special party.

Updated: 08:59 Friday, May 25, 2001