A COUPLE who had the rare honour of tying the knot in Bradford on Avon's Saxon Church have celebrated 50 years of marriage.

Mary and Bert Purnell, of Maple Grove, Trowbridge, were unable to marry in Holy Trinity Church because of repairs. Mrs Purnell said: "We did not care where it was as long as we married. We managed to get our 30 guests in there and it was very nice."

Mr Purnell worked at Wilkings and Darking gents outfitters in Trowbridge for 40 years, and after having her three children Mrs Purnell worked at Colborne Trophies for 22 years. Their four grandchildren joined the fun at the family party.