SALE couple, Nora and Bill Atherton, were delighted to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.

The couple, who married in 1953, met while they were pupils at Barlow Hall Primary School in Chorlton.

Bill, 81, and Nora, 80, have two children, Lesley and Stephen, as well as five grandchildren.

Reflecting on their long and happy marriage, Nora said: “We’ve just been very lucky; we have five beautiful grandchildren and are a very close-knit family.

“We are all Manchester City supporters and have nine season tickets between us, so we share sporting interests too.”

Bill and Nora marked the milestone at the Boathouse, at Sale Water Park, surrounded by family and friends.