AUDREY Coyle had a double cause for celebration this week. For as she reached her 80th birthday, she also clocked up 25 years as a baby clinic volunteer.

As one of the health professionals at Romanby's Mayford House put it: "We could not manage without her."

Mrs Coyle began her volunteer work through Northallerton Inner Wheel Club when she used to sell powdered milk and weigh new-born babies at the Zetland Street clinic in Northallerton and Romanby's WI Hall.

She now puts in a couple of hours at the Mayford House clinic on Fridays, registering details of babies' names. "She is like a gran to them all," said nursery nurse, Karen Artley. "The mothers love her."

Mrs Coyle loves her work. "I am now seeing the grandchildren of people who came to me when I started," she said.

And she has no thoughts of giving up. "It is not too taxing and I really enjoy it," she said. "I get chatting to the mums and often see them around town. They all know me. I have enjoyed every minute of it."

Mrs Coyle celebrated her birthday on Wednesday with a family meal.

Her husband, Harry Coyle, has just retired after 40 years as clerk to Romanby Parish Council. The couple have one son, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

"Audrey is excellent," said Ms Artley. "We couldn't manage without her. She has not missed many sessions in all these years and is a valued member of the team. She is down to earth, wonderful at giving practical advice and always so cheerful."