A LOCAL couple who recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary have thanked family and friends who helped to raise almost £900 for Cancer Research, through donations in lieu of gifts.

John Joe Christy and his wife, Kathleen (nee Forbes), were married in Strabane's Church of the Immaculate Conception by Rev Agnew back in 1947.

To celebrate the 60-year milestone, the couple were joined by friends and family at a special Mass in St Mary's Church, Melmount.

In lieu of anniversary gifts, the family decided to raise money for charity and in the process raised an impressive £890 for Cancer Research.

Thanking everyone for their generosity, John Joe said, "I'm very happy with what the family have done.

"It was a lovely gesture and I'm delighted to see the money raised going to such a good cause.

"I'm very proud of what they have done and I would thank everyone who donated so generously," he added.