TWO childhood sweethearts have proved their love could stand the test of time after celebrating 70 years of wedded bliss.

Nancy and Eddie Tunstall married in 1936, aged 18 and 19 respectively, and marked their platinum wedding anniversary on Wednesday.

The happy couple have lived in places around the country and across the world during Mr Tunstall's years in the armed forces, but have now settled in Darlington.

Mr Tunstall, part of the Royal Artillery, served in the Second World War, and was awarded the Military Medal.

While the couple lived abroad, Mrs Tunstall, now 88, dedicated herself to the welfare of wives and children in her husband's regiment.

After a distinguished 35-year career in the military, Mr Tunstall, 89, was awarded an MBE in 1995 for his 14 years of work with servicemen's families in Darlington, through the Soldiers' Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association.

Mr and Mrs Tunstall celebrated their special day with their four children, 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren at a family party.

Granddaughter Louise Smith said her grandparents were still very much in love, and everyone was delighted they had reached such a milestone.

"They are a much admired and loved couple who have time for everyone and are permanently cheerful and happy," she said.