A ROMANTIC couple who recently celebrated 51 years of marriage are still getting over the shock of becoming regional finalists in a Grandparents of the Year competition.

Richmond couple Molly and David Squires had no idea their granddaughter, Helen, had nominated them for the annual competition run by Age Concern.

The 19 year-old art student, who lives with her grandparents following her parents' divorce, claimed it was their close and special relationship which inspired her to nominate them.

She said: "I am a romantic at heart. My own parents are divorced but my grandparents have shown me how a relationship can really work. It's about teamwork and finding a calm way of coping with disagreements, so they don't turn into rows."

Other family members have also been inspired by the couple's relationship. Helen's cousin chose to get married on the date of her grandparents' golden wedding anniversary last year.

The Squires have a one more hurdle to clear before clinching the title: they must undergo a 20-minute interview along with nine other regional finalists at a London ceremony on December 12.

"We are definitely still shaken by it all," Mrs Squires told the D&S Times. "The first time we heard about the competition was when Age Concern in London called us a fortnight ago. For Helen to have done this is something to be treasured."

Helen is saving for a six-month gap year trip to New Zealand and says her grandparents have been a "rock" to her.

She said: "I get up at 4.50am to start work, the table is always laid for breakfast and often my grandparents leave cheerful notes for me to send me on my way."

Despite ill health, Helen says her grandparents always share their time and skills with their grandchildren.

Mrs Squires, an antique silver expert, often takes Helen to antiques fairs with her. "I'm so proud when I see other dealers ask Grandma for her opinion on silver," added Helen.

Mr Squires, an ex-head teacher, always helps his grandchildren with their homework .

"They may not be 100 years old, they may not be famous, they may not speak 15 different languages, but they are special to me!" Helen added.