OLD friends of a couple who died within months of each other are invited to a service of remembrance next month.

Durham-born Thomas and Doris Davison will make a final, poignant return to their home city for a service at the cathedral on Saturday, April 16.

The couple, who were married for 70 years, moved to the Bromley area of London 15 years ago with their family.

Doris died in October at the age of 91, followed in February by the death of her 89-year-old husband.

The devoted couple's life will be remembered at a short service at 4pm in the Galilee Chapel, after which their ashes will be scattered on the banks of the River Wear.

Originally from Neville's Cross, where Thomas' father was gardener at the college, the couple spent much of their life living in Beck Road, Newton Hall.

Having started as an apprentice, Thomas spent all his working life as an organ builder for Walkers, of Durham, while Doris was active in the local church and brought up the couple's three daughters.

A number of their seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren will join the family for the service and anyone who remembers the couple from their time in Durham is invited to attend the cathedral.

Anyone who wishes to get in touch with the family is asked to call grand-daughter Amanda Richardson on 07941 589304.