A FAMILY is preparing for a special Christmas after its latest addition means it now spans five generations.

Lennon Lee Yates, who was born just over a week ago, completes a family headed by Vera, 79, and Arthur Bartholomew, 84.

Below them in the hierarchy are Margaret Birbeck, 58, Deby Stobbs, 39, and Lennon's mother, Michelle Louise Stobbs, 20.

Proud grandmother Deby said it felt strange to belong to a five-generation family.

"It is very unusual to have five of us under 80 years," she said.

"There is about 20 years between each of the generations, and it is very strange because I do not feel old enough to be a grandma.

"It is lovely though, and it will be a lovely Christmas this year."

The family, from Easington, east Durham, is already well-known in the area, as Mr Bartholomew is the only surviving member of the 1951 pit disaster rescue team.

Mrs Stobbs said: "He was introduced to the Queen when she was in Easington and she said what a good-looking chap he was for his age."