DIANE and Michael Legg, of St Mary’s Close in Hilperton Marsh, are celebrating their golden wedding by throwing a garden party for family and friends.

Mr and Mrs Legg, who tied the knot at St Paul’s Church in Staverton on May 20 1967, first met at a dance in January 1962. Mr Legg had just returned from serving in the Merchant Navy.

Mr Legg, 70, who was born in Hilperton, and Mrs Legg, 70, who was born in Staverton, both attended Nelson Haden Secondary Modern School but their paths didn't cross until the Red Cross social dance.

“We were both part of the Red Cross when they were separate for boys and girls," said Mrs Legg.

"Then a mixed group was started and that is how we met. Michael had just come back from the Merchant Navy and we went to the Red Cross dance in St James’ Hall.

"My friend told me to come along and I couldn’t really be bothered but that is where we met.

“When he went back off I would write to him as that was the only way you could keep in contact those days."

Mr Legg returned to the UK in August 1962 and the couple got engaged the following December. They set up home in Hilperton Marsh, in the same house that they live in today, and two and a half years after they were married, on December 11, 1969, they welcomed their daughter Clare into the world.

“We will spend our anniversary with our daughter Clare and her partner Vic," said Mrs Legg.

"We will be having a garden party, which is going to be lovely.”

The couple say their lasting relationship is down to the fact they never argue and that they are friends as well as partners.

“It works well because we are friends. We go out and we do our own thing and we have a great time together,” said Mrs Legg.

“We are happy as long as I do what she tells me to do,” added Mr Legg.