A COUPLE from the North-East helped low-cost airline Ryanair celebrate a milestone yesterday.

Ryanair marked the first anniversary of its service from Newcastle Airport to Dublin, which has seen 120,000 North-East passengers travel to the Emerald Isle.

Joining in the celebrations were Robert Sutton, from Sunderland, and his wife, Joan, who was the 120,000th customer.

"It's our first time in Dublin, and also our first flight with Ryanair," she said.

"We're looking forward to seeing the sights and drinking some Guinness."

Mike Luddy, the airport's commercial director, said: "Ryanair's Newcastle to Dublin route has been a fantastic success story for the airport.

"The twice-daily service has proved to be one of Newcastle International's most popular routes, offering North-East passengers direct, low-cost links to Dublin, as well as providing a significant boost to the region's tourist economy with inbound passengers enjoying city breaks in Newcastle."

Ryanair's UK sales manager, Cathy Timlin, said: "Ryanair has revolutionised low-cost travel throughout Europe and has made it possible for thousands of people in the North-East to travel to Ireland for the price of a couple of pints.

"Equally important are the large numbers of Irish people whom we are bringing into the Newcastle area to spend their euros, giving a major boost to local hotels, restaurants, shops, pubs and clubs."

To mark the anniversary, the airline is offering one-way flights for £19.99, including tax, until Monday.

For more details, visit the website, www.ryanair.com.