AFTER 40 years together, a couple have shown their family that marriage is just as wonderful the second time around.

Alfred Atkinson's romantic ruby anniversary gift to his wife, Muriel, was a dream wedding ceremony in the church where they exchanged vows in 1960.

True to tradition, he laid on a gold Rolls Royce to carry his bride to St Paul's, in Witton Park, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

The couple, who live on the Woodhouse Close estate, Bishop Auckland, had their 12 grand-children follow Muriel down the aisle.

Muriel swapped white for traditional ivory while the girls wore pink and cream.

Alfred and the boys sported red buttonholes for the anniversary theme.

Alfred said: "I did it because I wanted to show how much I love her. It was a brilliant day.

Muriel said: "People don't think he is romantic, but he is. He gave me a wonderful day.