A COUPLE who got married on New Year’s Day in 1954 are today (Thursday, January 1) celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary.

Arthur and Doreen Douglas, who live in South Pelaw, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, met at work and were wed at Holy Trinity Church in Pelton.

For their honeymoon they spent a week in London

Mr Douglas, now 85, is a former sheet metal worker from Birtley and Mrs Douglas, 82, was from Pelton.

The couple had three sons and one daughter, and now have seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren with another on the way.

Their daughter, Christine Douglas, 53, said: “They have had their ups and downs, and they argue, but they are there for each other and they look after each other.

“They are thrilled to have made it to their diamond wedding anniversary. They have said it is such an achievement.

“They have always done everything together. They are always there for their family. They live for the kids.”

The couple are celebrating with family and friends at their home in The Close.

Ms Douglas said: “They will probably have a string of visitors and we have a got a cake for them. It will be very special.”