A DEVOTED couple who tied the knot 60 years ago are celebrating their milestone anniversary.

Julie and Anthony Knight, from Dovercourt, first met at the scout hut, in Bradfield, at a dance when Anthony was 22 and Julie was 19 years old.

The couple, who were both born and raised in Dovercourt, and now live in Frobisher Road, got married at Mistley Church on June 4, 1960.

Mr Knight, now 83, was an engineer working on Supermarine Spitfires during the Second World War.

After the war he went to work in the plumbing trade until he retired.

Mrs Knight, now 80 , was a machinist in Colchester, and then she moved on to work at Dolphin Sails Ltd, based in Dovercourt.

They have two sons Peter and Alan, and five grandchildren Daniel, Ashley, Thomas Charlie, Alexandra, Jade, Joe and Bradley Knight.

Nicola Knight, their daughter-in-law, of Blacksmiths Lane, Dovercourt, said the retired couple have always enjoyed ballroom dancing.

Nicola, who is Alan’s wife, said: “Julie and Anthony have always enjoyed many holidays and in their words they “never argued”.

“They have been supporters and collected shoeboxes for children in need abroad.

“Julie and Anthony are wonderful parents and grandparents.”

She added: “Before the current situation a party was being arranged for their anniversary, but now it is just going to be close family visiting while maintaining social distancing rules.

“The whole the family wish them love on their special day.”