Mervyn and Jean Minty are celebrating two big occasions this week –not only is it their 60th wedding anniversary, but Jean has also just turned 81.

When they married in 1949, it was the day after Jean's 21st birthday. Mervyn, who was still only 20, had to ask permission from his parents before they could go ahead with the big day.

The couple, who live in Fishponds, met in Jean's hometown of Blackpool in 1948.

Jean was working in a biscuit factory at the time, and Mervyn was doing his national service, when they met in a local park.

Romance blossomed, they kept in touch after Mervyn moved back to Bristol, and then a year later they tied the knot in Downend Baptist Church.

By this time, Mervyn was working on the railways and Jean moved to Bristol to be with him.

She worked in Packers chocolate factory and did several cleaning jobs, but she stopped working when he retired after 48 years.

They have two children, Linda and Geoff, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Jean said: "We have been very happy together. It is all about pulling together and also helping one another."