A YORK pensioner enjoyed a special 70th birthday celebration when he was joined by all six of his brothers and sisters.

Family members came to York from all over the country to help Neville Lee, of Collingwood Avenue, celebrate his three score years and ten.

Former plasterer Neville, who has lived in York for 37 years, said as the second youngest child he enjoyed a lot of privileges.

The father of three daughters said: "There are always people around to talk to with such an extended family.

"Of course I was bullied a little when I was younger but my brothers and sisters have taught me a lot.

"We are all still healthy and active and enjoying our lives."

He was joined by brothers Ken , aged 79, Les , 78, and Geoff , 77, and sisters Ida Pawson, 76, Audrey King, 74 and Joan Wilson, 60, for five hours of festivities.

Eldest daughter Margaret Brown, 47, who lives in Lancashire, said the party was an opportunity to celebrate all of the siblings' lives.

She said: "All of them were born and brought up in Tadcaster and three now live in York.

"We won't get many more chances to have a bash like this so it is something special.

"There has been a lot of reminiscing as well as taking photographs, eating and drinking."

Over 50 family members from three generations crowded in to Shepherd's Social Club, Holgate Road, for the party.

The siblings now live in Wetherby, Garforth, Grimsby and Leicester as well as York.

Updated: 08:58 Monday, April 22, 2002