IT was double trouble as Colchester Twins and Triplets Club celebrated its 40th anniversary.

The support group held a party at Great Bentley Village Hall and invited past and present members.

Anna Smith, who helped to organise the event, said: “We had 32 families with their older siblings so there was a lot of children.

“We had bouncy castles, a magician, cakes and crafts, we made crowns to celebrate the Royal wedding.

“A lot of parents come to the groups regularly and have made friends, it was nice for everyone to get together.

“We had a couple of people who were members 30 years ago and we had archives to look back on.”

Former chairman Don Howard also handed over the reins to Daniel Layzell after four years in post.

Don said: “The club is special to me and my family. Finding out I was pregnant with twins a few months after moving to Essex was a daunting and scary prospect.

“Joining the Colchester club was literally my lifeline, providing me with advice, support and friendship.

“They have seen me through the sleepless first year, the cute crawling stage and now into the chaotic and fun toddler years.

“The friendship group my family has made is priceless, other parents have given me the love and support needed to bring up multiples and I have made some amazing friends.”