THEIRS was a war romance which has lasted 60 years and there can be no doubt that Diamond couple William and Gwendoline Wren remain very much in love.

The devoted pair met in 1944 at Southampton Guildhall's Sunday Rendezvous. William was in the Navy and on this particular night one waitress caught his eye. The couple, who have lived in Midanbury for 25 years, believe fate brought them together. Gwendoline, 80, said: "That night was the only time I ever went to the Rendezvous. When William asked if I wanted him to take me home, I accepted."

After William was demobilised from the Royal Navy having served for four years, the couple married in June, 1946.

They used his £65 demob money to pay for the wedding which took place at Parish Church, Hove, William's hometown.

William, 83, said: "It was a very windy day and all the girls had to hold their dresses down."

The pair, who have a son, Phillip, a daughter, Susan, and four grandsons, will be celebrating their anniversary with their family on Sunday at The Castle Midanbury. William, said: "You should never go to bed on an argument. Life is too short."

Gwendoline added: "You need a good sense of humour. That's what we have in common."