A COUPLE who described themselves 'falling in love at first sight' are set to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.

Bill and Shirley Ellwood, from Belthorn, will mark 60 years of married bliss on Monday with a celebration with their family and friends.

The couple met when they were in their late teens, and Mrs Ellwood said that the pair were destined to be together.

The 80-year-old said: "It was at a big fair at Easter at the old market.

"He turned to his sister and said that's the one I'm going to marry.

"We just know everything about each other, we know what the other one is going to do and think, we even say the same things."

Mrs Ellwood worked at Majestic Hairdresser in King William Street, Blackburn before working as a dinner lady at St Oswald's School in Knuzden and then as an escort for children at Crosshill Special School in Blackburn.

Mr Ellwood worked as a stone mason for Scales Funeral Service in Darwen Street, Blackburn before becoming a builder.

He even built the couple's own bungalow in Belthorn Road.

The pair, who have three children, and four grandchildren both enjoy gardening and when they were younger kept a variety of animals including hens, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Mrs Ellwood said: "It's very nice, some people never get to see their children but ours all live in the area.

"We are very lucky for that, we are blessed."

With 60 years of marriage to look back on, the pair have also shared their secrets for a happy marriage.

Mr Ellwood, 82, said: "There was always attraction between the two of us.

"It's all about give and take. It's about the companionship.

"We just built a life together, had kids and grandkids.

"I've got no regrets, we wouldn't be where we are today and I wouldn't want it any other way."

Their son Steven said: "Their relationship just works.

"They're like cat and dog, they're always niggling at each other but that brings that spice and spark to the relationship, and keeps it fresh.

"It's an incredible achievement for them both."