A BRIDESMAID from their marriage 60 years ago joined Thomas and Marjery Brown for their diamond wedding celebrations.

Mr Brown's sister, Rose Savage, made the trip to east Durham to mark the couple's milestone day yesterday.

The couple were married at St Mary's Church, in Horden, six decades ago, and yesterday Mrs Brown, of Haswell, joined her husband who is now lives in the Highfield House nursing home in the same village.

Later in the day, the Browns were guests of honour at a small family party, hosted by their daughter, Christine Nicholson.

It was at Mrs Nicholson's home that Mrs Savage helped the Browns recall their wedding day so long ago.

Mr and Mrs Brown are both originally from Horden, where Mr Brown worked at the NCB offices before moving to the Coal Board headquarters in Team Valley.

Mrs Brown worked as a doctor's receptionist in Horden before she and her husband moved to Haswell.

Until he was struck by ill health, Mr Brown and his wife enjoyed spending time in their caravan, near Appleby, in Cumbria.

The couple have a son, Bill, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

A number of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren attended the family party, making it a memorable day.