A couple who met across the dance floor have waltzed their way to 60 years of marriage.

Kenneth, 92, and Mary Neal, 90, celebrated their Diamond Wedding anniversary recently, after meeting at a work party more than 60 years ago.

They were both at a staff dance while working at the former Napsbury Hospital where Mary was a nurse and Kenneth a laboratory technician.

Kenneth said: “It was her general attitude to things [that attracted me to her], she was very caring.”

They married at SS Alban and Stephen Church with a reception at the nearby Abbey restaurant, now NS salons.

The couple were given the royal seal of approval with a letter from the Queen, and will celebrate with 60 family and friends at a party on March 7.

Kenneth said: “It was very nice [to receive the letter], we’re going to do something special with it.”

Mary and Kenneth have lived at the same address in Sandridge for 55 years, raising six children there.

Mary said: “We love the countryside. I didn’t want to live in the middle of a town; there’s nice walks and countryside here.”

After retiring from their jobs, Mary a cook at Sandridge Infant School, and Kenneth a laboratory technician at Charing Cross Hospital, they are keeping busy in the community.

Mary helps clean homes in the area, and Kenneth does gardening for St Leonards Church nearby.

Asked what was the secret of a longlasting marriage is, Kenneth said: “Have respect for one another, don’t take anything for granted.”