THE secret to a happy marriage is a 'bit of give and take', according to a West Devon couple who celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary.

Horace and Kathleen Mudge from Mary Tavy were surrounded by family to help them celebrate 60 years of marriage.

Horace and Kathleen, both in their 80s, met at Goose Fair in Tavistock.

Kathleen said: 'My husband's uncle introduced us — it fizzled out a bit but we got back together after a little while. You get your ups and downs but you just have to pull together. It's all about give and take.'

When the couple got married, Horace worked on Kathleen's father's farm in Mary Tavy for five years until they got their own farm to rent in Horndon. After nearly 34 years the couple then moved to Brentor Road in Mary Tavy where they live now.

Horace and Kathleen celebrated their anniversary with their three daughters, three son-in-laws, five of their grandchildren and two great- grandchildren. Two of their grandchildren were unable to attend the celebration.

The couple were given a special cross-stitch hanging marking the anniversary, made by their youngest daughter Carol, and they also received a card from the Queen.