DIAMOND wedding celebrations have become a real family affair in one household this week.

John and Margaret Lowe, better known as Jack and Peggy, have been surrounded by wellwishers at their home in Quarrington Hill, near Durham.

Members of five generations of their family have called to pass on cards, flowers and messages of congratulations on reaching 60 years of marriage.

The couple, both 78, have lived in Neil Crescent for all but one of those 60 years, albeit in three different homes.

Mr Lowe, a retired miner and quarry worker, came from Ferryhill, while Mrs Lowe, a former hospital and bus depot cleaner, has lived in Quarrington Hill all her life.

They were visited by relatives from Worcestershire earlier in the week, while it was open house yesterday on the anniversary itself.

The full celebration will be held tomorrow, with a party at the nearby Quarrington Hill Workingmen's Club, where Mr Lowe is a keen pool player.

The couple have eight daughters and three sons, 19 grandchildren, 15 great- grandchildren, as well as a great-great-grandson, eight-month-old Gary, who was among the visitors, accompanied by his mother, Kimberley.

Those relatives unable to visit yesterday hope to attend tomorrow's function.

Daughter Norma said: "It has been hectic. People have come from far and wide to see them.

"When I got here this morning, all the great-grandchildren were here putting up balloons and cards and giving invites to neighbours and friends."

She said pride of place among the many cards was a message of congratulations from the Queen.