A WORCESTER couple have received a signed letter from the queen, making their diamond anniversary today (September 1) just that little bit sweeter.

Roy and Margaret Smith, who live in Longfellow Road, were congratulated on their 60 years of marriage in the letter.

Mr Smith, 81, said: "It was wonderful to receive a letter from the queen. It came with a lovely photo of her, which we have put in our window.

"It was delivered by a special courier, not the normal postman. I'm hoping she invites us to a garden party later in the year."

The couple exchanged vows at St Barnabas Church in 1956 and have been happily married for 60 years.

Mr Smith was 21 when he took a fortnight of leave from national service, to marry his wife-to-be.

"We went to London for our honeymoon and when we got back I was sent to Paphos, Cyprus," he said.

While he was stationed in Cyprus, Mr Smith sent letters back to his wife and says he just wanted to be with her.

The two have planned a celebratory meal at a restaurant today and will then head off to Eastbourne for a seven-day break.

"We have had a nice life. I would say to younger people, live life to the fullest," Mr Smith said.

"We have slowed down a little now. We spend time with the grandchildren and great grandchildren, it's nice to have them round for a cup of tea

"How long we will go on for now we are in our 80s, we will see. We have led a full life."

Mr Smith underwent a triple bypass in 1998 and says he was lucky to survive.

The couple have one daughter, two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Mrs Smith, 80, worked for 25 years at Boots in Worcester while her husband worked at British Gas for 45 years.