A pair of devoted grandparents who overcame a family tragedy are still going strong after 60 years of marriage.

Brenda and Pete Newman, of Meadow Way, Black Notley, got engaged on the Queen’s coronation day in 1953 and the couple celebrated by watching the procession on Brenda’s auntie’s television.

The pair saw in their milestone year at Millard House on Thursday 19 June where Pete is cared for full-time and enjoyed a cake and a party organised by staff at the residential home.

Even though Pete is completely wheelchair-bound, Brenda visits every two days to spend time with him.

“Until Pete went into the home, we did everything together - we never went anywhere other than together,” she said.

The couple, who have only ever ventured from Braintree to travel around Europe, tragically lost their 12-year-old daughter Shirley in 1976 after she was struck by a car on Broad Road, Braintree.

Brenda and Pete, who also have a son, Adrian, and granddaughters Rebecca, 15 and Emma, 12, said the key to their survival was to keep on moving.

“We had to stand strong and be firm.

“Our family is very close and they are all we have - we loved family holidays and made the very most of travelling together while we could.”