A COUPLE who met while both were serving police officers will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this week.

Laurie Heslop, 85, was introduced to his wife Jean, 84, by a colleague.

Mr Heslop was a chief superintendent of Durham Police from 1977 until his retirement in 1982.

Mrs Heslop, now 84, resigned from the force in 1948 to start their family.

The couple, of Douglas Gardens, Durham City, reach their diamond wedding tomorrow. They were married at Holy Trinity Church, in South Hetton, east Durham, on May 31, 1947.

Mr Heslop, originally from Hartlepool, said: "We've had many happy times. You've got to be tolerant, and listen to the other person's point of view."

The couple, both members of Durham City Golf Club, will celebrate their anniversary with a small family party.

Mrs Heslop, who was born in South Hetton, said: "We're looking forward to all the family coming together."

The couple, who have a daughter and two grandchildren, are also looking forward to the arrival of their first great-grandchild in October.