One of the goalkeeping greats of York City past is celebrating his diamond wedding today.

Bob Ferguson, 83, who was City's stopper between 1939 and 1947, met his wife, Vera, at a dance in their home town of Darlington, just prior to taking the gloves with the Minstermen.

At that time he was playing in the First Division for Middlesbrough against the likes of Manchester City, Stoke City and Wolves.

The couple moved to York when Bob, joined City and he began work at Cooke, Troughton and Simms, later to become Vickers Instruments, where he stayed for 40 years.

They were married in Darlington on April 19, 1941. They have lived in York ever since and currently reside in Woodthorpe.

The couple's love of bowls has had a hand to play in the success of their marriage, with Vera a former Yorkshire Singles champion. Meanwhile, Bob's all-round sporting ability led him to take on cricket professionally, playing in the Bradford League for 15 years and he was also a record runs-scorer in the York Evening League.

Commenting on the success of their marriage, Mrs Ferguson said: "It's been all about give and take and supporting each other. And, of course, a common interest in sport."

The Fergusons are having a family celebration at the Lord Mayor's Mansion House, as their son, Barrie, is currently Sheriff of York. They have two grandchildren, Andrew and Richard, and two great-grandchildren, Oliver and Lucy.

Updated: 12:12 Thursday, April 19, 2001