A Dagenham couple believed last week’s bad weather would put a dampner on their plans to celebrate 60 years of marriage.

But family and friends had planned a surprise party to celebrate their diamond wedding, where the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, Cllr Milton McKenzie, was guest of honour.

Donald Calder, 82, married May, 78, in 1951 and had four children. When asked the secret to a happy marriage, May said: “Compromise and putting up with one another.”

To start the celebrations, the couple were met by their daughters, son and neighbours at their home before local ward councillor Eileen Keller dropped by.

The mayor also came to the couple’s home in Downing Road. The group then took pictures in the Calders’ home where they have lived for the past 41 years.

The couple were then taken in the mayor’s car to Peter’s Caf�, Dagenham Heathway, where the owners made them a cake and the festivities continued.

May said: “It was all a surprise. I’m still getting over it. I wouldn’t have dreamt of it happening”

Cllr McKenzie added: “It was a lovely opportunity to visit Mr and Mrs Calder.”