A DANCE between strangers quickly developed into a romance that has lasted more than sixty years.

Darlington couple Joseph and Marian Welsh celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary this week.

The much-loved pair met over six decades ago at the Bath Hall Dance, held regularly at the swimming baths that once stood on Gladstone Street.

They married at St Paul’s Church in 1957 and went on to have two children, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Granddaughter Tracy Henderson said: “They are an absolute inspiration and loved by everybody who knows them.

“They’re still very active and do all sorts – Grandad helps his neighbours out wherever he can and Nana’s still doing Zumba three times a week.

“They are as every married couple should be, they are there for each other and their family and friends and would give you their last penny.

“They taught me how important it is in a marriage to listen to each other – they’re still a happily married couple who balance each other out.

“Nana and Grandad are inspirational and loved by everybody, we can’t wait to celebrate with them.”

Mr and Mrs Welsh will mark their milestone anniversary surrounded by their family and loved ones this weekend.