A DEVOTED couple are marking their golden wedding anniversary by taking part in a special service with hundreds of others who are sharing the same celebration.

Thomas and Joyce Longstaff, of Coniston Crescent, Crook, read about the Golden Wedding celebrations at Ripon Cathedral in The Northern Echo.

Mrs Longstaff said: "We thought it was a nice idea and decided to ring up about it and we were sent tickets."

The couple will attend tomorrow's event with their four children.

They will also be celebrating their 50th anniversary on June 30, with their children and grandchildren at Kensington Hall, Willington.

It was Mr Longstaff's persistence that won over his future bride, when the couple met at the Elite Dance Hall, in Crook.

Mr Longstaff, 69, said: "She turned me down when I asked her the first time, but when I saw her three weeks later she said 'yes', and we have been together ever since.''

After a three-year courtship they married at St Thomas's RC Church, Wolsingham.

They both agree that the highlight of their marriage has to be their children.

Mrs Longstaff, 68, said: "We have got four of the greatest children. They are fantastic."

The pair still enjoy dancing, and Mrs Longstaff has a talent for knitting.

Mr Longstaff enjoys spending time with his dog, Shane.