AN ALVA couple last week celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary on the very same dance floor they first met on back in the mid 1950s.

The town's Mary and George Burt, both 81, first saw each other at the Cochrane Hall more than 63 years ago, later tying the knot at St Serf's Parish Church on April 5, 1958.

And at the weekend, they went back to their favourite local venue to celebrate with a good-old-fashioned ceilidh in the company of family and friends.

Originally from Alloa, George was a prison officer at HMP Glenochil for more than 20 years, while Alva native Mary, nee Little, worked in the factories, mills and the local shops.

They had three children, four grandchildren and a further four great-grandchildren.

Over the years, the diamond couple never missed a holiday until recently.

Often with the kids, they have visited many places; some close to home, many south of the border and further afield across Europe as well.

Having met on the dance floor, the activity remained an important pastime for Mary and George, who enjoyed Scottish Country Dancing in the local area over the decades.

George courted Mary for more than three years and it was a tax rebate at the end of the financial year that helped the ceremony get underway.

The pair received a visit from Clackmannanshire Provost Tina Murphy and Anne Spruce, the Lord-Lieutenant's representative, on the big anniversary last Thursday, April 5.

They also received a telegram from Her Majesty the Queen, and were surrounded by children Sandra and Graham as well as flowers, hot drinks and eats.

There was a great atmosphere as they exchanged stories and memories from the past.

According to Mary, the secret is to meet “halfway and hope for the best”, while George mused: “I agree with everything.”