A GWENT historian has become a world record-holder after making an amazing discovery in a graveyard.

Amateur historian Graham Lawrence, 72, of Brunel Road, Cwmbran, uncovered a century-old gravestone in the overgrown Elim churchyard, Cwmbran, while trying to trace his family history, as revealed in the Argus last year.

The ivy-covered headstone revealed the names of Thomas and Elizabeth Morgan, who died in 1893 and 1891 respectively, Thomas, at 106, and Elizabeth, 105.

Mr Lawrence contacted the Guinness Book of World Records. Staff there carried out research, and have now awarded Mr Lawrence a world record in honour of Mr and Mrs Morgan, for Oldest Married Couple (Aggregate Age).

The new record will appear in the 2006 edition of the famous book.

Mr Lawrence said: "I was shocked. I thought it might have been a record for the country, but not a world record.

"I am proud of the achievement, and now Cwmbran holds a world record. There's not many places that can boast that. It's incredible to think this gravestone has been sitting here for 100 years. Their life span is truly remarkable."

He discovered the couple lived in Foundry Row, Cwmbran, now gone, and had 15 children, 17 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

Thomas was born in Llantrisant, South Glamorgan, and his wife in Caerleon. They were married in Caerleon in 1809 and had three of their children before the battle of Waterloo.

l Are you a descendent of the Morgans? Do you know anything more about them? Tell the Argus newsdesk about it on 01633 777226