KIRKBY Stephen couple Kathleen and Norman Guy have celebrated 65 years of marriage and have received a second card from the Queen.

Mr and Mrs Guy, who were married by Pastor Simpson from Brough at Crosby Garrett Chapel on October 5, 1939, celebrated their Blue Sapphire anniversary, and the message from Buckingham Palace was the second from Her Majesty the first being sent for their Golden Wedding anniversary.

Kathleen, 82, and Norman, 85, have known each other since school days. Mr Guy, originally from South Stainmore, met up again with his future wife while working on a farm in her home village of Orton.

Following a reception at Crosby Garrett Village Hall, the couple had their honeymoon in Morecambe. Shortly afterwards Mr Guy received his conscription papers and joined the Border Regiment before transferring to Ordinance and the 51st Division in Scotland. After the war, Mr Guy worked for 40 years on the railways, 39 of which were spent on the Settle-to-Carlisle line.

The couple's eldest son, Bryan, died six years ago. Their remaining children - Brenda, Peter and Terry, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren - joined them for a family celebration meal. Greetings were also sent by BBC Radio 2's Ken Bruce, who wished them well on his morning broadcast.

Mr and Mrs Guy said: "We have been overwhelmed by the number of cards, flowers, presents and good wishes we have received. We would like to thank everyone, especially our family, who have been wonderful."

The couple are looking forward to the gift arranged by their family - a visit to Blackpool illuminations and a meal by the sea.