A couple who will be celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary say they love one another just as much after a lifetime together.

Donald and Diane Francis were married at the Church of the Annunciation, in Burnt Oak on March 20, 1954.

The pair were childhood friends living on the same street and after getting married moved to their home in Reynolds Drive, Kenton, 58 years ago.

Mrs Francis, 80, said: “I think after all these years we are closer now and we are certainly stronger as friends.

“We’ve known each other all our lives and we’ve always looked after each other and have been there to support after each other.”

After Donald completed his national service in 1951 the pair began going to dances at the Kingsbury Drill Hall.

At one Valentine’s Day dance Donald got down on one knee and proposed in the middle of the dance floor.

After getting married they moved into their current home, which was just a street away from where they grew up.

Mr Francis said: “We have lived here our entire married life and there have been a huge amount of changes in the area.

“There’s a bit less of a community here but we do get along with our neighbours and we’re glad we’ve stayed.”

Mr and Mrs Francis have three children: Colin, 58, Tina, 54, and Donna, 49, and six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Talking about the forthcoming celebrations, Mrs Francis said: “We will be going for a meal will our great grandchildren, grandchildren and our children for big meal and it will be lovely to have everyone together to celebrate.”