A DIAMOND couple are still sparkling after 60 years of wedded bliss.

Childhood sweethearts George and Jessie Kemp celebrated the special anniversary milestone with a party in Largs Masonic Hall at the weekend.

Family and friends flocked to help the duo mark six decades since they tied the knot.

They were wed on in 1959 at Renfrew Parish Church but it wasn't until 2006 that the happy couple bought a home in Largs.

George was 21 while Jessie was a young 18-year-old when they decided to walk down the aisle.

The couple have two grown-up children spread who are now living America and England, six grandchildren and a great grandchild.

George, 81, said the secret to their happy life together was to 'keep laughing and have a good sense of humour'.

He retired 16 years ago, having worked as an engineer at Hunterston and various other locations around the country.

Jessie, 78, started out as a machinist but later went on to get a qualification as a counsellor after attending what was one of the first pilot courses for the career in Edinburgh.

George said: "She was always very good at helping people.

"It made perfect sense that is what she ended up doing for a living."

The couple celebrated the special day on June 5 with a spot of lunch before gearing up for their big celebration at the weekend.

George said: "When we came to Largs everyone was so friendly. It is such a happy place to be.

"It was when we discovered the Masonic Hall in town that we made lots of friends there.

"They have a dance on every second Sunday of the month which we like to go to.

"We still have a good laugh and enjoy a wee dance, that keeps us going.

"We also still like to keep fit when we can and I still enjoy a round of golf.

"Life has been good to us and it has been wonderful to mark our anniversary surrounded by family and friends."