A CALNE couple marked their diamond anniversary with a lunch, surrounded by family.

Brian and Mavis Chivers, of Curzon Park had daughters, Wendy and Janet, their granddaughters and Brian’s brother and best man John as guests at the celebration on June 23 at the Shaw Country Hotel in Melksham .

Brian, 82, and Mavis, 79, were married at Calne Methodist Church in 1959 and have spent their whole married life in the Calne and Bath area.

The couple worked together for much of their life and ran several shops in Calne, Melksham and Bath.

One of their businesses was a newsagents that was always busy with workers from the Harris factory.

Brian was also the chairman of Chippenham Tennis Club where he was able to enjoy a lot of time on the court. His wife would often join him at the club to help out and socialise with the other members.

They were described by their son-in-law, Andy Smith, as a very close and loving couple. He said they had a lovely day with their family.

Brian and Mavis said they were extremely pleased to receive a congratulatory message from Buckingham palace on their special day.

The couple added they were looking forward to many more years together.