An American couple have arrived in Israel to build a new life together – at the combined age of 188.

Phillip and Dorothy Grossman, who have been married for 71 years, are thought to be the oldest husband and wife to make aliyah.

The Grossmans, from Maryland, arrived in Israel on Tuesday and have now moved in to their new house in Jerusalem.

"They are proof that it is never too late to fulfill your dream and make such a significant decision in life," said Erez Halfon, vice - chairman of Jewish immigration group Nefesh B'Nefesh.

"We congratulate them and wish them many more years of health and happiness living together with their family in Israel."

Their family includes 14 great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, spread between Israel and the US.

They were met at the airport by their 22-year-old grandson Yosef, a yeshivah student.

"We love Israel and we are very excited," said Mrs Grossman.