A DYNAMIC duo from Braintree have won a national competition to find the most convincing lookalikes in the UK.

Retired priest Neil Richardson, 70, and former head teacher John Jemison, 75, took part in a study in September at London’s St Thomas Hospital conducted by Professor of Genetics at Kings College Tim Spector.

The study will be broadcast nationally as part of a Channel 4 documentary, due to shown in the near future.

The pair, who are both from Braintree, were found to be most alike after a series of tests and a public vote, which pitted them against six other lookalike couples.

Scientists conducted several studies on the couple, including taking photographs and making 3D models of their features.

DNA tests also revealed that the pair’s genes are as alike as you would expect from close relatives.

It was found that they share around 90% similarity in their facial features such as their noses.

Mr Richardson said: “We didn’t even know it was a competition until we got there and they were testing us.

“After the tests we sat in a big room with all the other lookalikes, where we were wearing matching yellow t-shirts, and they invited 100 people to come and inspect us.

“We felt a bit like animals in a zoo.”

The duo went on to claim the title of the most similar lookalikes in the country.

Mr Richardson said: “On average, although not on every aspect, we came out on top and we won the competition.

“In the photos they took I don’t think we look very much alike.”

The duo first found fame shortly after Mr Richardson moved to Braintree in 2013, where he found himself startled and confused to be being called John by strangers in the street.

They soon became close friends and even discovered they shared similar interests, both attending the same college in the 60s and working as religious education teachers.

The perfect pair are even hosting a poetry evening at Braintree Museum next Friday.