Couple With Down's Syndrome Celebrate 23 Years Of Marriage Together

Viewers of ITV's This Morning have been moved by the story of a couple with Down's syndrome who appeared on the show to celebrate their 23-year-long loving marriage.

Maryanne and Tommy Pilling have both got Down's syndrome, but after being criticised and told their relationship was 'disgusting' by some people, they are now celebrating the 23rd anniversary of their 'blissfully happy years together'.

When they appeared on the famous sofa earlier today, they held hands, and Maryanne told the presenters: "It was love at first sight."

Tommy couldn't hold back the tears as he told everyone about how much he loves his wife. It's bloody lovely stuff, honestly.

They were joined on the show today by Maryanne's mum Linda, who admitted that at first some people were sceptical of her decision to let the relationship blossom.

She said: "Other parents couldn't understand why I was willing to take it as far as I did.

"But they had an official engagement for four years followed by the huge white wedding they wanted.

"They married in a church and [Maryanne's] dress was made by her auntie and it was stunningly beautiful."

Sounds it. Linda even got the honour of walking her daughter down the aisle.

The couple now have their own flat and live just next door to Linda, so she's still very much a part of their lives.

However, it hasn't always been easy. Linda seemed emotional as she spoke of how received the news from the doctor that she was to have a baby with Down's syndrome at just 21 years old.

She said: "It was unknown then. I was just 21 and she was my first baby.

"But if I could see myself now I'd kick myself up the backside and say you don't know how lucky you are,"

On top of their existing plans for celebration, Phil Schofield had an extra surprise for the happy couple. He presented them with four tickets to the Strictly Ballroom tour as an anniversary gift on behalf of the whole This Morning team.

He also said: "And Holly and I will pay for dinner for you."

Maryanne then gushed: "You're my favourite guy!"

Phil quipped back: "Well, second favourite."

It's nice to see a good news story from time to time. The good people of Twitter obviously agree. Messages of support have been flooding in for the pair.

Happy Anniversary, guys!