Diamond wedding couple Kath and Leon Merritt started their anniversary celebrations this week with an early morning blessing in St John's Church, Upton Bishop, where they were married 60 years ago, on October 2, 1941.

Visiting the church for their anniversary has become an annual tradition for the couple, who say there is no magic formula for a happy marriage, apart from a willingness to face and enjoy the world together.

Mrs Merritt said: "We've worked together and played together, which is marvellous."

When Mr and Mrs Merritt were married, the Second World War had just begun.

Mr Merritt became a Company Sergeant Major with the Service Corps.

After the war, Mrs Merritt gave up employment as a chemist and went into business with her husband, opening Ledbury Plants Centre at Homend Lodge, which they ran together for 25 years until their retirement.

The couple share interests such as gardening, decorating, bowls and bridge. They have one daughter, June, and two grandchildren, John and Jeremy.

After their blessing in Upton Bishop Church, Mr and Mrs Merritt enjoyed a tour by car and a celebratory meal in Worcester, before returning to their Homend home, to greet well-wishers.