A couple in Swindon celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in style after spending 60 happy years together.

Derek and Joan Rose have been living at the same house in Stratton St Margaret since they married six decades ago.

Joan originated from Scarborough and lived in Silloth until her father’s job brought her down to the Wiltshire town at the age of 20 years old, whereas Derek is Swindon born and bred.

The couple met on September 24, 1961, in the upstairs ballroom of McIlroys which later played host the Beatles and the Rolling Stones later that decade.

“We were dancing as that was the only thing we did in Swindon in those days,” said Derek.

Swindon Advertiser: Derek and Joan on their wedding day in 1963.Derek and Joan on their wedding day in 1963. (Image: Chris Cox)

“It would have been nice to remember the first song but we were concentrating more on trying not to step on each other’s feet!”

Derek was lucky enough to go and watch the Beatles during their gig at the venue on July 17, 1962, making the venue a very special place for the 83-year-old.

“That was one of their first gigs so we didn’t actually take much notice because they weren’t famous,” he revealed.

“They were just a young lot who were reasonable but of course they had good songwriters.”

The pair were married on March 2, 1963, at St Mark’s church opposite Faringdon Park and had their reception at The Oxford, now known as The Merlin, in Drove Road.

Swindon Advertiser: Derek and Joan cutting their wedding cake.Derek and Joan cutting their wedding cake. (Image: Chris Cox)

The pair are well-travelled in their days together, having gone on holidays all across Europe and beyond.

“We honeymooned in Torquay but we also went to Spain, Romania, Croatia and more,” said 82-year-old Joan.

Derek added: “Switzerland was my favourite because I liked to be able to visit the mountains with snow but also have the lovely sun at the same time. It was heaven.”

Joan worked at Debenhams for over 34 years in Debenhams whereas Derek started his working life in the railways before moving to Monsanto which was based in Dorcan.

Swindon Advertiser: The pair have been happily married for 60 years.The pair have been happily married for 60 years. (Image: Chris Cox)

They have lived in Stratton all their married life and went on to have one daughter, Chris, and two grandchildren.

“We’re very grateful of having our daughter and having the two grandchildren from her too,” said Derek.

“They’ve both graduated from university and we’re very proud. We couldn’t wish for a daughter like we’ve got.

“It’s nice to think that they’ve done better than you have, so I’m really pleased.”

They celebrated with a steak dinner surrounded by their family on Thursday, March 2.