A milestone wedding anniversary of 65 years was marked at a Worcester care home for a dedicated couple.

Sheila and Ted Grove celebrated at Red Hill Care Centre, London Road, on Wednesday, October 11.

They were joined by family, friends - and even pet dogs - for their surprise party and buffet.

Speaking about their wedding day in 1958, Sheila said: "It doesn't seem that long ago actually."

"It was a beautiful day and the sun shone as we were leaving the church and my veil never moved.

"We were penpals while Ted was in the navy and I was living in Gravesend in Kent. That's where we got married too.

"We met and started to get along and then you suddenly realise that person is the right one for you.

"We lived in the same house for 55 years until moving to Worcester in recent years to be closer to family."

Sadly, Ted had a stroke not long after the move to Worcester; where he went into the care of Red Hill.

The couple have one son, Pete, and two grandchildren.

Sheila and Ted's best friends, Margaret and Clive - who are also the parents of their daughter-in-law Sara - were also present for the party.

"We've got G&T's, flowers and two family dogs, Lily and Nancy, here with us today, too," Sheila added.

"Through the years we'd love to go on holiday with our best friends and, of course, having our son Pete was a special moment for us.

"When Pete and Sara got married that was one of our favourite days too."

When asked what the secret to a successful marriage was, Sheila was quick to emphasise that working together as a team was important.

"Marriages are not made in heaven, you have to work at them," she said.

"You get through the good and bad times together with give and take.

"You have to make sure that you trust each other as well. Looking back I would not change a thing."

Daughter-in-law Sara added: "The staff at the home have been brilliant in putting together a display of old photos and decorating the lounge.

"We had singer Ruby Red here, the kitchen staff made a superb cake and we are extremely grateful to Nikki and Vanessa for organising this.

"This is a wonderful day for a wonderful couple."