A SURPRISE party was thrown for a couple from Frampton on Severn to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.

Christine and Geoff Gardner, 79 and 81, were joined by family and friends at the Whitminster Inn on Monday, May 11 to celebrate 60 years together.

A dozen family members attended the surprise event, which was co-coordinated by their three children Nigel, Grenville and Linda.

Linda said: “It was a lovely evening, we were so happy to have so many family members with us to celebrate.

“It was a complete surprise they had no idea it had been planned. They were quite shocked first but took it all very well.”

After tying the knot in Arlingham in 1955, the couple have lived in Frampton most of their married lives.

Both born in Gloucestershire, they now live in an idyllic spot near the beautiful canal in the village.

During his working life Geoff, a vintage motorcycle enthusiast, worked at the Cadbury’s factory in Frampton until its closure.

Christine worked at a nursery in the village.

Together the diamond couple have three children and three grandsons.