Still a handful for Mum, the Walton sextuplets at 23

When grown-up children decide to return to the nest, it can be a blow to their parents' new-found freedom. But when the children in question happen to be sextuplets, the strain could push a family to breaking point. Fortunately for Graham and Janet Walton, the pleasure of having five of their six 23-year-old daughters back home far outweighs the upheaval it has caused.

Back, from left: Luci, Jennie, Kate. Middle: Sarah, Ruth. Front: Hannah

The couple, who made history in 1983 with the birth of the world's only all-girl sextuplets, said that they couldn't be happier.

"I love that they're all around," said Mrs Walton, 54. "It would be so lonely without them. All I want now is for them to produce some grandchildren.

" All six girls - Hannah, Luci, Sarah, Kate, Jennie and Ruth - moved out soon after they turned 18, but over the years returned one by one, the family tells this week's edition of First magazine. The only exception is Ruth, who is also the only one in a steady relationship. But she is living nearby with her boyfriend of four years.

Fortunately, the Waltons senior hadn't made any drastic changes to their lifestyles. The minibus they used to ferry their daughters around has gone, but was replaced by an eight-seater people-carrier - with the numberplate J6 MUM - and they still live in the same eight-bedroom house in Wallasey, Wirral. "We're flattered that they missed home so much they wanted to come back and we like to think it's not entirely for economic reasons," said Mrs Walton.

"They're out quite a lot in the evenings and Graham and I work in the day so we don't get under each others' feet. "Every Sunday we always try to sit down together for a roast lunch - always cooked by Graham, who has been the family cook since they were kids. "It gives us all a chance to catch up on each others' news.

" Mr Walton, now 56, and his wife had given up on having children when their 13th attempt at fertility treatment bore fruit in spectacular fashion. The sextuplets were born prematurely on November 18, 1983. Today, the girls are forging different paths.

Hannah earned a business degree and works as a dispenser at Boots, Ruth and Luci work for Thomas Cook travel agents, Sarah is doing bar and restaurant work, Kate works in personnel and Jennie does childcare. Though proud of their adult children, the couple actually miss the days of nappies and endless feeding. "They were such happy times and we can't wait until the girls start having kids of their own and we can step in and take them off their hands for the day," said Mr Norton.

A full version of this interview plus more pictures appear in this week's issue of First Magazine, out now. 11 people have commented on this story so far. Tell us what you think below.

Here's a sample of the latest comments published. You can click to read all comments that readers have sent in.
Linda, I agree.

I have watched all the documentaries and think that Graham and Janet have done a fantastic job. The girls come across as unspoilt, loving, caring and hardworking girls with impeccable manners. Good luck to all of you for the future.

- Cathy, Watford, England
It is all the sisters in the photo and the mum is missing Caro - happy birthday you all look very beautiful and very happy congratulations! - Sinead Donnery, Dublin
Can't believe it's 23 years. Seems like only yesterday we were reading about them.

Lots of congrats to the whole family. - Sylvia, UK

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Keywords: First Magazine, Mrs Walton

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