A VETERAN marathon runner and his wife are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary today.

Gerry and Peggy Kearsley, from Sedgefield, are planning a party with family and friends to celebrate their 60 years of marriage.

Mr Kearsley, 79, has run 51 marathons and the competitions have taken him all over the world, including New York and Malta.

He has resumed training after a three year gap to help his wife recover from illness.

The couple met 61 years ago at a dance in Newcastle when Mr Kearsley was in the Royal Navy.

Before they retired Mrs Kearsley, 77, worked as an administrator for North Tees Hospital and Mr Kearsley was a senior probation officer.

The couple have three children, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

They hope to see most of their family at their anniversary party.