A special item was on the menu when two lovebirds went to lunch this week.

Terry McGee produced a ring for partner Kath Clarkson and went down on one knee to propose in Caf Gulp, Priestgate, Darlington.

Ms Clarkson immediately said yes and the couple celebrated with a kiss in front of fellow diners.

"I really am happy," said Mr McGee, a father-of-one, who was also celebrating his 57th birthday yesterday. "I was in love with Kath for a year before I did anything about it."

Mother-of-four Ms Clarkson, 50, said Mr McGee had already proposed in private, but wanted to do it again at Caf Gulp, where he is a regular customer.

Staff laid on a complimentary meal and brought out an engagement cake.

The pair, who have both been married before, met five months ago and now live together on the Firthmoor estate. They have not yet set a date for the wedding.

"We are just taking things slowly," said Ms Clarkson. "I have been hurt too many times before."

Tina Blackbourn, assistant manageress at Caf Gulp, said: "This is the first time we've had a proposal here. Terry's been coming in since we first opened and he is a lovely man.

"He seems so happy and we are all really chuffed for him and wish them all the best."