A DIAMOND wedding couple have said they thoroughly enjoyed their day, which was marked with a card from the Queen and a surprise party.

Louis and Hilda Neasham, from Richmond, celebrated 60 years of marriage with friends and family today (November 1).

Mr Neasham, 83, said he and his wife, who is 79, are looking forward to a family meal on Sunday at the King’s Head Hotel in the town, but enjoyed a surprise party this morning at Greyfriars Extra Care Housing Scheme, which was attended by Richmond mayor Stuart Parsons.

Mr Neasham worked as a miner in Murton, County Durham until he was 40 when he left because of injury, and then became a caretaker at Richmond Lower School until he retired.

Mrs Neasham still works at a caretaker at Richmondshire District Council headquarters Swale House.

He said: "It is not every day you celebrate 60 years of marriage and get a card from the Queen - so far the day has been quite grand."

The couple have two daughters and two grandsons – one who works in Tokyo and another with his own IT business.

Mr Neasham said he and his wife are very proud of all of them.