A SKELMANTHORPE couple celebrated their diamond wedding by renewing their marriage vows.

Robert Whiteley, 86, and wife Marion, 82 renewed their vows at a special service at St Augustine's Church, Scissett, where they first said "I do".

The couple, who have lived in Highbridge Lane, Skelmanthorpe, all their married life, met at the local cinema when they were in their early twenties.

During the Second World War Mr Whiteley was a tank driver with the Royal Enniskillen Dragoons for six years.

In his youth he was a keen sportsman. He still watches sport, particularly football and rugby, and is interested in local history.

After the war, Mr Whiteley was a bricklayer at Park Mill Colliery, Clayton West.

Mrs Whiteley, who has attended St Augustine's Church all her life, has kept an active interest in church matters. She enjoys reading and letter writing.

The couple have two daughters, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who joined them for a celebratory meal at Bagden Hall Hotel, Scissett.