A well known Skenfrith couple celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last Thursday.

Roy and Mary Thomas, who live at Box Farm were married on February 19th, 1949, at St Bridget's Church, Skenfrith, the church where they had met two years previously.

"Roy was the organ blower there, and he walked me home - and we went from there," said Mary.

"I lived in Grosmont but it was nearer to walk to church in Skenfrith."

After working with his uncle at The Mill, Skenfrith, Roy took up employment as a saw doctor at Pontrilas, retiring 13 years ago.

Mary has worked as a home help, as a cook at Park Hall Ballroom, Wormelow, and selling fruit at Biddlestone Orchards.

She is a keen member of the local gardening club and helps organise a dancing club at Cross Ash as well as a pensioners luncheon club.

Her service to the community was recognised some years ago when she was presented with the Round Table Award for Great Britain for care and friendship, receiving the award from the Lord Mayor of London.

Mary's other cherished memory is going to see King George V11 planting an oak tree near her childhood home at Dinmore.

Roy and Mary have a daughter, Connie and a son Bryn, plus seven grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Among the dozens of congratulatory cards they received, was one from the Queen.