THEY have only had to wait 52 years – but a pair of twins will finally become teenagers today.

‘Leaplings’ Janine Fowles and Alexandra Clarke are looking forward to celebrating their “13th birthday” on February 29 with friends and family.

The identical twins, who were born in Whinfield Road, Claines, said being born on a leap day means people never forget their birthdays.

Mrs Clarke, from St John’s, said people always remembered them and they had also appeared on the Big Breakfast and in the Worcester News since they were newborns.

“We have always felt a bit special obviously because of being leap year babies and being twins – we are a bit out of the ordinary. We always make sure the family are all together when the leap year comes around so we can all celebrate together.

“I don’t think I would like to be a teenager again though. I’m known as a bit of an eccentric person now so I think if I started having teenage tantrums most people would disown me.”

Their mum had not known she was carrying twins until she gave birth.

Once eldest sister Janine was born, weighing a healthy 8lb 5oz, their mother complained of still feeling unwell and 10 minutes later along came Alexandra weighing 5lb 3oz.

“They didn’t have scans in those days so nobody knew she was expecting twins.

“She did see her hairdresser a couple of days before who said she looked like she was going to have twins – she went back in after we were born and told her she should become a midwife.”

Janine Fowles, who lives on Ombersley Road, said the sisters had always shared a strong bond with each other.

“It will be nice to have a proper birthday this year, we’re looking forward to spending time with the family. People know us as the twins and – because of our birthday – people never forget it.”