SIXTY years is a long time, but for one couple in Kington this week they celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary after tying the knot in 1959.

Brindley Powell, 83, grew up just across the Welsh border in New Radnor, and his wife Valerie was born in Kington. Mrs Powell admitted 60 years is a long time, but she "mustn't grumble". The couple married on August 1, 1959.

Both said they were very lucky to have lived healthy lives with no serious illnesses, but Mr Powell admitted his wife, 79, had always been incredibly supportive towards him.

"I played football until I was 36 and then I went on holiday to Saundersfoot with my brother-in-law and he said I'd need something to keep me active so took me down to the bowling green. I loved it and on the Monday I joined Kington Bowls Club.

"Before that I played football, I played 16 times for Wales over six years. Of course, at an amateur level there's only three games a year. I played for Hereford as well.

"I've had a good partner with me. She's been my rock really for a long time. She won't say it herself but she was a good bowler as well, we won the Hereford Bill Bailey tournament three times."

Mr Powell was 20 when he left the National Service in 1956 and met his wife-to-be at a dance in Presteigne. The couple's daughter, Jane Lilwall, said her father is still very active for his age and is still working part time for a tyre company.

The couple also have a son David and three grandchildren Sarah, Emma and Alex.