GERALD and Eileen Atkinson celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with special icing on their cake... a surprise from Oldham mayor Ginny Alexander.

Because of Covid restrictions the town's first citizen could not share their diamond day but she sent a card and flowers to mark the occasion.

And in addition, Gerald, a former baker and confectioner with a talent for cake making, created a delightful confectionery creation for their big day.

Gerald and Eileen met in Huddersfield where Gerald lived and Eileen had family.

They have two daughters, Caroline and Kay.

Eileen worked at Butterfields and Warburtons as an administrator and then owned a shop in Middleton Junction. She later became a child minder.

Gerald worked as a baker and confectioner in Slaithwaite and when they moved to Heyside after their marriage, he started work at Park Cakes Bakery and then Warburtons Bakery in Shaw.

The couple became very active at Heyside United Reform Church. Eileen was captain of the Girls’ Brigade and an officer in the Pilots. They are both still active in the church and, until lockdown, they assisted with a toddler group.

Cllr Alexander said: “I wish you both a wonderful day of celebration.”