A COUPLE from York raised more than £700 for a multiple sclerosis charity when they celebrated their golden wedding anniversary last week.

Brenda and Michael Beaumont, of Huntington, held a party at New Earswick Bowls Club on Friday, and more than 70 guests turned up.

The couple had asked friends and family to donate to the York branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society instead of buying them gifts for their anniversary.

Brenda, 72, has looked after her husband Michael, 73, since he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 30.

Brenda said she was really pleased with the amount raised.

“It was a marvellous evening,” she said. “I was really happy. I didn’t think we would raise as much as we have.”

The couple met after being introduced by friends on a night out at the Grand Cinema in Gillygate and then tied the knot at St Hilda’s Church in Tang Hall on June 9, 1962. They have two children – Stephen and Amanda – and four grandchildren – Vicki, Emily, William and Charlotte.