SIXTY years ago, Fred and Margaret Hickman were experiencing the same heartache facing couples across Britain earlier this month.

Parted by war, they had to say their goodbyes not knowing if they would see each other again.

But, for the Hickmans, the bitter sweet goodbyes were all the more painful in 1943 as they were separated only 24 hours after their wedding in 1943.

As a member of the Pioneer Corps, Mr Hickman was bound for occupied France and had to survive three months of combat before qualifying for home leave.

But survive he did, and after a belated honeymoon in London, the couple moved back to their native north-east.

Today, Mr Hickman is a resident at Brentwood Lodge in Leyburn and Mrs Hickman lives in sheltered accommodation at The Haven in nearby Bedale.

However, they were together for a surprise gathering for the whole family to celebrate their recent diamond wedding anniversary.

Daughter, Margaret, called from her home in Crakehall, between Leyburn and Bedale, while son, John, made the trip to North Yorkshire from Pontypridd in Wales.

Cards from well-wishers included a message from the Queen, who was told of the couple's special day by support worker, Margaret Hill, who works for Broadacres Housing Association which runs The Haven.