GREAT-great-grandmother Margaret Smith has celebrated her birthday surrounded by five generations of her family.

The 89-year-old, from North Cowton, near Darlington, was joined by friends and family for the celebration, and is already looking forward to her 90th birthday.

Mrs Smith, who is originally from York, was shocked when five generations of her family turned up for the party at her granddaughter Annette Connaughton's home, in Darlington.

She was joined by her daughter Irene Weighell, 65, from South Cowton, her granddaughter Annette, 41, her great-granddaughter Sandra Connaughton, 23, from Darlington and her four-year-old great-great-granddaughter Courtney Wood, from Darlington.

Mrs Smith is the last of ten children and said she is always keen to see as many of her family as often as she can.

She said that the family would try to get together for more re-unions in the future.

"We had a great time and Margaret seemed to really enjoy being around so many of her family.

"I think Courtney was the most confused because she keeps asking why she has so many grandmothers.

"We are now looking forward to the next get together and we will certainly all be getting together to celebrate Margaret's 90th next year if we can all get there."