A THRILLED York couple who have called two of their newly-born triplets Michael and Owen, say they cannot stand football!

Wendy Beckett, of Cornlands Road, Acomb, gave birth to the trio at the weekend in York District Hospital with husband Dale at her bedside.

Michael (weighing 5lb 4oz), Owen (3lb 9oz) and Nathan 5lb 7oz), who are not identical, were born five weeks prematurely, but are said to be in good health after spending time in incubators.

Michael was delivered first, followed by Nathan and Owen.

"We're over the moon," said Dale, 33, who works at a landfill site in Rufforth.

"It was a bit of a shock when we found out we were having triplets.

"I really liked the name Michael and my wife liked Owen - it had nothing to do with football. We can't stand it!

"A few of the hospital staff have mentioned it, but I suppose we will have to get used to that. If they want to pursue a career in football I won't stop them."

The couple, who are living with Wendy's mother, Audrey, have applied to City of York Council for a house.

Audrey said: "It's just a complete coincidence they're called Michael and Owen - Dale and Wendy don't even like Liverpool or football! They're beautiful babies."

Updated: 11:23 Friday, May 03, 2002