TWO pensioners have proved to be a blessing to their community.

Earlier this year, George and Alice Hewitson launched an appeal to raise funds to build a new centre next to the Teesside church were they were married.

On Thursday, as they celebrated 60 years of wedded bliss, Vicar Graham Usher announced that the appeal had almost reached its target.

The centre, planned for Holy Trinity Church, North Ormesby, Middlesbrough, will incorporate a 200-seat main hall and stage, meeting rooms, offices, kitchen and links to the church.

Mr Usher said: "Six months ago, George and Alice Hewitson launched the Trinity Centre Appeal and it is wonderful that as they celebrate 60 years since they were married at Holy Trinity Church, they also know that with their help we have raised over £775,000 for the Trinity Centre project.

"With just one final effort, we will soon be able to begin this important project for North Ormesby.''

Mrs Hewitson said: "It's a wonderful thing that the Trinity Centre Appeal has done so well. Obviously, some people are working hard to see North Ormesby become a better place.''

The couple tied the knot in on October 31, 1932.