A couple from Ireland who made their home in Huddersfield celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary with five generations of their family.

James and Bridget Walker, of Sheepridge, have nine children, 19 grandchildren, six great-grandchilden and a 10-month-old great great grandson.

The couple, both born in Ireland, were married at Marshalstown, County Wexford, on July 4, 1956.

Both had left their homeland in the 1950s to find work in London and met at an Irish dance hall in the capital, marrying about a year later.

James, a bricklayer, and Bridget, a waitress, came to Huddersfield in 1962 and moved to their present home 24 years ago.

James, now 83, and Bridget, 78, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary two days early with a big party for family, friends and neighbours at Deighton Working Men’s Club.

The couple would like to thank all their family who made the day such a success.

Bridget said the secret of a long marriage was “give and take and looking after eachother.” She added: “If you have a row you have to talk it through.”

James enjoys gardening, playing chess and walking while Bridget spends her time reading, knitting and sewing.