There are not many couples who celebrate 70 years of wedded bliss, but Tom and Muriel Lazenby marked the occasion in style on Friday when they toured Richmond Park and Bushy Park in a stretch limousine.

And that was not the only surprise for the couple from Stanley Road, Teddington, who were reunited with their only son Raymond, who travelled from Australia with his wife Vicki to join the celebrations.

They also received a card from the Queen congratulating them on their anniversary, and the congregation at Teddington Baptist Church threw a lavish party on Sunday.

The couple met by chance when Mrs Lazenby, now 91, went to pick up some shopping from a grocers in Wimbledon where her husband-to-be was working. It may sound like a clich but the Lazenbys say it was love at first sight.

On July 22, 1931, the couple married at Wandsworth register office, and just over a year later celebrated the arrival of their son.

They settled in Teddington in 1939 just before Mr Lazenby was enlisted as a conscript with the Royal Army Service Corps, spending four years on the north African campaign.

He worked as a bus driver with London Transport after returning from the war, retiring in 1974.

The couple believe the success of their marriage is down to patience and being able to give and take.

Mr Lazenby, who is 91 next month, said: It is understanding one anothers needs and following them through. We have as much affection for each other now as we ever did.