Roger and Ann Easterby had their first date at the cinema and more than 60 years later it is still one of their favourite things to do.

The couple, who live in a flat in West Street, Gravesend, are celebrating their Diamond anniversary today (Thursday).

Growing up in the town, the pair knew of each other through friends and would see each other walking to school and work and at Chris’ Record Shop on a Saturday.

However, it was not until Roger, who used to be a journalist for the Gravesend Reporter, hosted a New Year’s Eve dance that they were properly introduced.

The 84-year-old said: “I used to run dances around the town and I had a New Year's Eve dance at the General Gordon pub.

“Ann was there with her sister and I went up to her like a true gentleman.”

They went to watch a film at the now closed Majestic Cinema, in King Street, Gravesend, and the rest is history.

At 24 and 19-years-old, Roger and Ann tied the knot on February 22, 1964.

They have two children, Neale and Jane, and five grand-children and have lived in Farnborough, near Orpington, Sevenoaks, New Barn before down-sizing in Gravesend.

Roger, who was once a record producer creating hits like Son of My Father by Chicory Tip and I’ve Got You On My Mind by Dorian Gray, said they have been very “lucky”.

He added: “We admit, we have a very nice life. Everyone likes each other and we are still able to travel.

“We have enthusiasm for life. We like people. It is about having a laugh and a lovely family.

“It is very unique. Not many people reach this anniversary.”

Ann, who is a retired early years teacher, said: “It just works. We are complete opposites and they do say opposites attract.

“We see the funny side of life and just go with the flow. We still like each other's company and our family gets on really well.”

The husband-and-wife duo said they still love spending time together whether that is on holiday in Arizona, going to the cinema, or cheering on Ebbsfleet United F.C, the club which Roger was once chairman.