Long-married couple Mary and Vincent Foster received a right royal gift to cheer up a stay on Stepping Hill Hospital’s stroke ward.

Mary has been recovering on the ward since her stroke in early December, with husband Vincent a frequent visitor to be by her side.

His latest visit featured a big surprise – a card from the Queen congratulating them on their 60th Diamond wedding anniversary.

Mary and Vincent met at a dance-hall, which used to stand near the hospital in Hazel Grove, Stockport.

After their wedding they both worked at the same chemical works before retiring.

Mary said, “I’ve had excellent care from the stroke ward staff, but it’s still hard being ill and away from home for so long over the Christmas period. This message from the Queen has brightened up my stay.”

Mary was able to come home to Vincent after Christmas but before New Year’s Eve.