They met in Glasgow in 1959 when Frances was 14 and John was 13.

And four years later, when they got married everyone said the marriage still wouldn't last.

John said: “Back then, everyone said we were too young and that a mixed marriage between a Catholic and a Protestant would never last.

“But here we are now, 60 years down the line. So, I think we can say that we did make it work.”

Joining them at their home in Hamilton to help them celebrate their Diamond Wedding Anniversary was South Lanarkshire’s Depute Provost Bert Thomson, who presented the couple with flowers, a special bottle of whisky and a certificate on behalf of the council.

And Deputy Lieutenant for Lanarkshire Dr William Morrison Young was also on hand to present them with a certificate from The King and The Queen Consort to mark their achievement.

John grew up in the Bridgeton area of Glasgow and worked as a manager with various utility companies, all over the country gas, water, electric for over 35yrs, and taxied for a few years.

And Frances worked on the counter staff at the Capocci Man café in Hamilton for around 36 years.

The couple, who moved to Hamilton in 1979, had four beautiful daughters and now have two grandsons, three granddaughters and two great grandsons.

And they also have a wee dog Bailey who is now 16.

Apart from spending time with their family, the couple’s hobbies include caravan breaks and holidays in Spain, Costa Brava being their favourite where they went to celebrate after their family Diamond Wedding celebrations on the day.

If you would like the Provost to attend a Diamond Wedding or 100th birthday please get in touch with the Provost’s Office.