CHILDHOOD sweethearts from Kingswinford have marked 60 years of marriage after first meeting when they were just nine years old.

Harold and Sylvia Eades, of Fairview Crescent, tied the knot on July 28, 1956 at Dudley Baptist Church when they were both aged 20.

The wedding came 11 years after the pair first met when studying at Tividale School together. They started dating when they reached the age of 14.

Their courtship continued until Christmas Day 1954 when Harold and Sylvia became engaged.

After their marriage, the couple welcomed their daughter Caroline Jayne in 1965 and were then gifted granddaughter Charlotte in 1991.

2016 is a year of anniversaries for both Harold and Sylvia as the couple have also recently celebrated their 80th birthdays.

Harold, a member of the Gentleman Songsters, said: “Not many people are married for 60 years these days, especially not many who meet for the first time when they are nine-years-old.

“This year is also made even more special for us as both Sylvia and I have celebrated out 80th birthdays.

“We’re so lucky to have each other, as well as a beautiful family and wonderful friends to celebrate our anniversaries with.”