An Exmouth couple, who have celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary, have shared the secret to 60 years of marital bliss - ‘a bit of give and take’. Chris and Barbara ‘Bunty’ Pengelly marked the milestone by attempting to recreate their special day at Withycombe Parish Church – where they tied the knot in 1957.

Exmouth Journal: Chris and Bunty Pengelly recreating their wedding day at Withycombe church. Ref exe 16 17TI 1334. Picture: Terry IfeChris and Bunty Pengelly recreating their wedding day at Withycombe church. Ref exe 16 17TI 1334. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

They were also treated to a special ‘murder mystery’ night at the Royal Beacon Hotel, where they were ‘involved’ with the theatrics. They also received a card from the Queen.

They celebrated the anniversairy with their daughter Lorraine and son Nicholas, as well as their three grandchildren.

Former school dinner lady Bunty, 81, said the festivities were ‘just lovely’.

Chris, 82, said: “The key for us is a bit of give and take and to realise that no-one is perfect – I think forgiveness is a big thing as well.”

Bunty has lived in Exmouth all her life and former hairdresser Chris, 82, moved to the town at a young age.

Both regularly attended a social club held in the hall behind Withycombe Parish Church, and it was here they met as teenagers.

After Bunty agreed to go out on a date, Chris offered to take her to watch a movie. However, his plans were scuppered when they found out King George VI had died earlier that day.

The couple decided instead to spend their evening on a walk along the cliffs and haven’t looked back.

The pair were also one of the first to move into custom-built housing in Brixington in 1965 and have lived in the same house ever since.

Chris and Bunty were both christened at the church where they got married in April 1967.

Chris spent most of his life cutting hair at a shop, ‘Pengellys’, opened by his father, which he later took over.

Bunty worked in schools for much of her life in several roles including dinner lady and teaching assistant.