A DEVOTED couple refused to let health problems get in the way of their golden wedding celebrations.
Peter Hammond was admitted to hospital suffering from a stroke just days before the 50th anniversary of his wedding to his wife, Lily.
The couple, from Darlington, arranged for a family party at the Navy Club, in Corporation Road, on Saturday, and Mr Hammond was given permission by his doctors to attend the event.
Mrs Hammond said: "He went mad because we were going to cancel it all, but we've organised to get him out in a wheelchair."
The couple, who have four children and nine grandchildren, were married at St William's Church, in Albert Hill, Darlington, on March 31, 1951, and have lived in the town all their lives.
Mr Hammond, 72, is a former painter and decorator.
Mrs Hammond, 70, worked for 27 years as a cleaner in Darlington's indoor market.
The inseparable couple, who live at Eggleston View, are rarely seen in town without each other.
Mrs Hammond said: "We're as happy today as the day when we were married."
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