THEY first met at Stroud Show as teenagers in 1947 and have been together ever since.

John Wheeler, 82, and his wife Margaret, 81, celebrated 60 years of marriage on Thursday and it all began with a ride on the dodgems.

Mr Wheeler said: "We both remember meeting at Stroud Show clearly. I asked her if she wanted a go on the ride and she said she didn't have any money, so I paid."

He was known to 'chat up' his future wife at the gates of Stroud High School and the pair married at St Matthew's Church, Cainscross on August 23, 1952.

They have three children - Andrew, Garry and Jo - four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Mr Wheeler said: "They have been a happy 60 years. We have had a wonderful life. It has been hard at times but the secret to a long marriage is a bit of give and take."

Mrs Wheeler worked as a school dinner lady and worked in retail at Flair of Stroud and then Special Occasions until she retired aged 72.

Mr Wheeler spent three years in the Merchant Navy and on his return to Stroud joined the Midlands Electrical Board.

He suffered from a stroke in 1984 leaving him unable to drive and he had to leave his job, but he did not let this beat him and started work at Hebers in Thrupp.

Mrs Wheeler became a resident at Northfield House care home in October last year after being diagnosed with Alzheimers.

Although they can not be together all of the time, Mr Wheeler lives a short walk away and they still enjoy quality time together. Their daughter Jo said: "Their strength and love for each other has got them through difficult times. They are still smiling and for this I admire them greatly."

The couple celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary with champagne and cake at Northfield House with staff and other residents.