FORMER ramblers, policemen, dowsers and family and friends were among those that gathered at the Bedford Hotel in Tavistock recently to help a Lydford couple celebrate 60 years of marriage.

Rodney and Doreen Smith, who were married in Portsmouth, have lived in Lydford for 30 years. The couple were joined by nearly 70 people at the party to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.

The couple received a card from the Queen and a number of handmade cards from guests who came from across the UK to join them on their special day.

Mr Smith said he and his wife had a 'cracking' time and expressed thanks to the Bedford Hotel staff for their hospitality.