AN OTFORD couple are celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary today.

Jean and Ken Gunderson, who are both in their 80s, received a royal congratulatory message from the Queen on September 24.

They have lived in the same house in Knighton Road, Otford for the past 54 years and have raised five children there.

Having met in Finchley, North London, in 1947, Mr and Mrs Gunderson have known each other for a staggering 63 years.

They got to know each other while attending a Methodist youth club.

Mr Gunderson said he did not know the secret of a long and happy marriage, but did think that having things in common was a good start.

"We both enjoy the theatre, amateur dramatics and music," he said.

Despite being 85 and 83, they are still very active.

Mr Gunderson is a regular contributor to the Otford Society, having been its chairman for many years, and is now president. He has also been chairman of the Otford Allotments Association. Mrs Gunderson is a member of Otford WI and Otford Methodist Church Choir. They are both members of the Otford Players.

Their family held a small celebratory lunch on September 24.