Local couple Mike and Rose Tarrant recently celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on September 22.

The pair who live in Bellanaleck were married 60 years ago at the Salvation Army Hall in Derby. Rose originally from Nottingham, met Mike in his hometown of Derby where love bloomed. The pair relocated to Northern Ireland in 1981 and settled in Bellanaleck in May, 1983.

They were greatly surprised when they were invited to their visit their neighbours, Ossie and June Clements on house for tea with another couple when they discovered a surprise party had been organised in their honour.

They have two children; a son, Edward and a daughter, Sally-Ann who both live in England with their families. They are proud grandparents to five grandchildren.

They plan to celebrate later in the year with a trip to Ashford Castle. When asked by The Impartial Reporter what the secret to a long marriage. Mike said: “There are no secrets, keep no secrets.” Rose added: “Just keep working through things and working together.”

Mike and Rose are grateful to all of those who made their recent celebrations so special