A HURWORTH couple will enjoy a double celebration this week.

Jane-Ann Kirk and her husband, Robert, who live in Westfield Drive, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary as well as Mrs Kirk's 90th birthday.

The couple became childhood sweethearts after meeting at Sunday school in Gateshead.

They also attended the same school in the town.

They married on February 27, 1937, at High West Street Methodist Church, Gateshead. Mr Kirk, 89, spent six years away from home during the Second World War, working in the RAF Auxiliary Service, which led to him being awarded the Queen's Air Efficiency Award.

When he returned home after the war he started working for the Co-op insurance company, which resulted in the family moving around the country, to Glasgow and Manchester.

The couple had two children, June and Robert. June died seven years ago. They also have two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Mr Kirk retired at 65, when the couple returned to the North-East, to Hurworth, near Darlington.

They have been involved with the Methodist church for many years and have worked as Sunday school teachers. Mr Kirk is a steward at Hurworth Methodist Church.

Mr Kirk said: "We have had a full and happy life. My wife and I work together, always have done. We want to stick together.

"We have a lot to be thankful for. My wife has been a great support, a great mother and cook and a lovely person."

Mrs Kirk, who was 90 on Friday, received 33 cards and nine bouquets.

The couple will celebrate the birthday and their anniversary with a party for family and friends on Saturday, and a buffet at Hurworth Methodist Church on Sunday.