MORE than 70 people gathered at Okehampton Rugby Club recently to help celebrate the golden wedding anniversary of an Okehampton couple, who raised hundreds of pounds through donations.

Roy and Ann Mallett, 76 and 69, were treated to a surprise party with all their friends.

Daughter-in-law Karen Mallett said: 'They thought they were attending a small gathering but were surprised by a full-scale party, with over 70 people. Instead of presents it was suggested to give donations to Devon Air Ambulance and South Tawton Primary School.'

The couple were pleased to raise around £500 and handed over a cheque to Matt Woodley from the BBC Radio Devon Air Ambulance Appeal for £370 — pictured.

The remaining money was used to buy a trophy acknowledging good citizenship for South Tawton Primary.

The couple have lived in the Okehampton area all their lives and now have two children, Stephen and Debbie, five grandchildren, Andrew, Hayley, Christina, Jonty and Jamie, a great grandchild Cody and another great grandchild on the way.