The 82-years-old couple, who have lived in seven homes in Atherton, Hindsford and Tyldesley intend having a quiet day at their Tyldesley bungalow after receiving a telegram from the Queen.

They met through the Salvation Army and were married on May 23, 1942 by Mr Goulbourne's step brother, Captain Harold Finney, at Atherton.

The Goulbournes moved into their first home in Bag Lane, Atherton, and since then have lived in Astley Street, Alfred Street, Shakerley Road and Manchester Road in Tyldesley, and Powys Street at Hindsford.

Mr Goulborne worked at Nook Colliery and his wife was employed at Prestwich Parker nut and bolt works at Atherton.

Now settled in Sale Lane, Tyldesley the couple are still keen caravanners who have recently returned from a stay in Northallerton, North Yorkshire.

They have three sons, Dennis, Stewart and Ian, and a daughter, Shirley, seven grand children and two great grandchildren. They moved into their present bungalow a year ago.

And they say the secret of their glittering 60 years together is "having lots in common and give and take."