THE parents of tiny IVF twins born a decade ago were this week celebrating a special milestone.
Mum Jayne Dudley and dad Mark Neal got together as teenage sweethearts and tried for a baby for 13 years.
But they were prevented from conceiving naturally as Jayne suffered two ectopic pregnancies.
The couple were accepted for IVF treatment and Jayne became pregnant at the second attempt.
Little Devon, weighing in at just 4lbs 4ozs and Saffron, 3lbs 3ozs, were born seven weeks early.
Housewife Jayne, 40, of South Street, Accrington, said: "The time has just flown by. We can’t believe they are 10. We both waited such a long time for them.
"Devon and Saffron grew pretty quickly and they are actually now over the average weight of children their age.
"Everyone else was nervous about the future of the twins but I wasn’t at the time. People were wondering how they would survive after being born seven weeks early but I never thought that. You just don’t let something like that enter your head."
The twins, who are in the same class at St John’s Primary School, Baxenden, celebrated their birthday with a party for pals at Accrington Superbowl.
It was yet another emotional milestone for the family.
Jayne said: "Their 10th birthday party was an emotional day. It was like their first day at school. I will always remember these moments.
"They are still in the same class at school, they enjoy being together and are a lot closer than the average brother and sister. They argue like normal siblings but they do a lot for each other."
Devon is very artistic and loves drawing while Saffron enjoys dancing and singing.
Jayne added: "When we look at them now it’s hard to imagine how hard it was at the time and how we never thought it would happen.
"It’s hard to explain to children but we have tried to help them understand as much as possible. I still look at them and can’t believe they are here. We are so proud of them both."
