In an age where nearly half of new marriages are expected to end in divorce, Rex Hassock will toast his diamond wedding with his eldest son, Michael, on his ruby anniversary.

Related factfile: Wedding anniversaries
A list of materials that are associated with each anniversary.
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More than 200 guests, including some of the original bridesmaids and guests, will descend at the Ivy Leaf Club in Whittlesey on Friday to celebrate two generations of successful marriage.

Rex (81) met his wife-to-be at his sister's wedding in Manea, near March, more than 60 years ago.

Despite being distant friends, Rex instantly hit it off with Brenda (78) and after taking her out on their first date a few days later, she couldn't resist his charms.

The couple, who live in Diana Close, Whittlesey, married just a month afterwards at St Nicholas Church in Manea and enjoyed a reception with 200 friends and family.

They went on to have seven children, Michael, John, Patricia, Jennifer, Shirley, Diane and Peter.

They also have 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Mr Hassock, who worked at Perkins, in Peterborough, said: "We have had a wonderful 60 years together. I think our secret is to have a quick row and then make it up.

"We love gardening and doing puzzles and crosswords together, but most importantly visiting all of our lovely children and grandchildren, who keep us on our toes.

"It is wonderful that we are able to celebrate our diamond wedding with Michael and his wife."

Michael (59) and his wife Jane (57) met on Manor Fields in Whittlesey when they were 19 and 16-years-old.

The couple went on numerous dinner and cinema dates before marrying just over a year later at St Mary's Church, in Station Road, Whittlesey on May 11, 1968.

The pair, who went on to have two children, Stewart and Anita, put their 40 years of happiness down to a lot of good luck and fortune and a bit of give and take.

Michael, of Crescent Close, in Whittlesey said: "I hope that in 20 years time we will be celebrating another 20 years at our diamond wedding and we are as happy as my parents."

The two couples are hoping to raise funds for Sue Ryder Care and Leukemia Research through the party.