700 couples renew wedding vows

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The mass, at Westminster Cathedral in London, was attended by some 700 couples who have been married for periods ranging from 10 years to more than 60. The service was led by Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor.

Stephanie and Robert Milverton, from Enfield, who celebrate their 40th anniversary this year, said they have always had a harmonious marriage.

Mr Milverton said: "We've never had an argument really. It was four years before we got married so we knew what was what. We like the same things anyway."

Fewer young people are tying the knot and are instead choosing to live together, according to the Office for National Statistics. But Mr Milverton said: "It's a catch 22 because people get married but there are so many divorces. It's a modern world so you've got to accept these things."

Gerry Fergus travelled with wife Beryl from Hertfordshire to mark their impending 40th anniversary on June 1.

He said: "Marriage keeps you together and keeps the family together. There's no secret to a long marriage, you just keep going."

Renata and Tom Bruin, from North London, have already renewed their vows once at a ceremony in Switzerland two years ago. The couple have been married for 53 years.

Mr Bruin said: "We depend on each other. We're here to renew our vows and celebrate that we've survived! The last 20 years have been the best."

The congregation included 29 couples who have been married for more than 60 years. All those who attended were invited after putting their names forward at their local churches.