FUN is the secret to a long and happy marriage according to a couple who have reached their diamond anniversary.

Tony and Mildred Baker met in 1952 at Bob Royals Temperance Bar in Leigh and married on March 6, 1954 at St Joseph’s Church.

The couple have lived in Leigh ever since and celebrated the 60th milestone with their two children Michael and Russell and four grandchildren, Thomas, Matthew, Grace and Robert.

Russell said: “My mum was working at the Leigh Courtaulds Mill as a Winder when they met and my dad had moved to Leigh to find work as a Miner, working at Plank Lane and Astley pits amongst others.

“Their courtship centred around ballroom dancing at St Joseph's Hall where my dad supplemented his income by operating the Super Trouper spot light in between dances with my mum – Strictly Come Dancing eat your heart out.

“After they married, mum started work at Cable Works, also known as BICC, and ended staying for 31 years while dad’s career spanned mining, work on the Mersey Tunnel and then scaffolding on Fiddlers Ferry Power Station.

“In 1983, my dad sadly fell from a church in Oldham where he was scaffolding and was left partially quadriplegic. My mum has cared for him ever since.

“The secret to a long marriage seems to be fun, fun, fun – my dad’s a bit of a rascal and is at his best when he’s making mum laugh.

“Her Majesty the Queen has recognised this wonderful achievement with a best wishes card and the family will be celebrating this fantastic milestone with a slap up meal.”

Tony, aged 84, was born in Sunderland while 78-year-old Mildred, nee Monks, was born in Leigh and they have lived in Sydney Avenue since they married.