AN OLDHAM husband and wife celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary during lockdown.

Des and Hazel Powell who currently live in Lees have been married for sixty years.

Des, 84 and Hazel, 81 married on October 1, last year but were only recently able to see their children and celebrate with a special cake.

The couple first met at a Vauxhall motors new year's eve dance and hit it off.

After falling in love they were married at Priory Church in Dunstable.

Des and Hazel went on to have three children together; Kevin, Graham and Stephanie and they also have three grandchildren.

Hazel said: "We met at the dance and we then stayed together and have had a happy marriage. We have three wonderful children and two grandchildren."

During their married life Des worked as a traffic manager for a coach company at the and Hazel was a secretary at a garment manufacturer.

They couple moved to Uppermill in 1961 and ran the shop on Church Road for nine years.

After their time at the shop, Des then worked for Royal George Mill until retirement.

Hazel was working as a secretary at AWC Windows until she retired.

Des said: "We believe that the secret to a long and happy marriage is sharing.

"It is important to share with one another and we always have done.

"When we can, we plan to celebrate with a cruise."

The couple's daughter first contacted The Oldham Times to have her parent's diamond milestone published.

Stephanie said: "We would like to wish our wonderful parents a happy anniversary.

"Thank you for your love and support over the years."

Have you recently celebrated a special occasion?

Email simone.okane@newsquest.co.uk.