THE Golden Jubilee was an extra special occasion for Graham and Dorothy Sly, who were also celebrating their golden wedding anniversary.

To mark the 50-year milestone of their marriage and the Queen's reign, the couple lit a jubilee beacon in Clyffe Pypard, the village they have lived in for more than 40 years.

Dorothy, 70, said: "We had two reasons to party. It was very exciting and an honour to play such an important role in our local jubilee festivities."

She first met Graham, 69, in 1952 when he was serving in the Army in Yorkshire. He asked Dorothy out dancing and she was swept off her feet. Within four months they were married, even though Graham was only 19.

"He had to ask permission from his parents and the Army. But I was fine and could do as I pleased," Dorothy added.

As a farm worker, Graham has always loved the countryside and fitted in perfectly when they moved to Clyffe Pypard in 1960.

Graham said: "We have a peaceful life. Although all marriages have their ups and downs, we've always stuck together."