Love is lovelier the second time around, according to newlyweds Dennis and Sophie Jones, who have become one of the oldest couples in the country to tie the knot.

Sophie, aged 86, and Dennis, 85, wed at the city’s register’s office yesterday in front of nearly 40 delighted family and friends.

Outside the beaming couple were congratulated by a coachload of residents from the Chris Laws Day Centre in Low Hill where they met four years ago.

Sophie, looking radiant in a coral pink jacket and navy pillbox hat, said: “I enjoyed my first wedding but this is even better.”

Former foundry dresser Dennis, in a silver-grey suit with a white rosebud buttonhole, clutched his new bride’s hand and said: “I’ve waited a long time for this day, I’m very happy.

“Sophie’s a lovely woman and I hope we have got many happy years together ahead of us.”

After their wedding reception at Goodyear’s sports and social club, the couple were preparing for their honeymoon – a weekend in Blackpool with their friends from the day centre.