Colin & Jane I moved into wife’s care home so we’d never be apart

Spending his first Christmas away from his wife in 55 years, Colin Bagshaw was heartbroken.

He and wife Jane had been inseparable since they met in a pub in 1965.

But tragically, two years ago, Jane was diagnosed with dementia.

Then in November 2020, Colin suffered a stroke – meaning that Jane had to go into a care home.

It was the longest they had ever spend apart.

Colin says: “We met in a pub called The Fountain.

“I remember seeing Jane across the room and being in awe. She was beautiful and surrounded by suitors.

“I went over and spoke to her and used all my charm.

“We’ve been together ever since. And, if I had a pound for every time I travelled to see Jane while we were courting, I’d be a rich man.

“We got married in April 1966 and one of our favourite things to do together was travelling.

“For our honeymoon we went from Lands’ End to John O’groats.”

Even when Jane, 72, was diagnosed with dementia, Colin, 75, became her carer. He says: “She just needed some more support remembering things, especially when cooking.

“I supported her at home. It wasn’t

too hard because it has always been the two of us.

“It was just about checking that things were turned off.

“She is just my Jane who needs a bit more help.”

This made their time apart even more difficult and Jane asked for Colin every day that went by without him.

The lockdown restrictions meant that Jane and Coline were not allowed to see each other at all.

So, late last month Colin decided to take the plunge and move in with Jane at the Oulton Manor Care Home in Leeds, which is run by Anchor Hanover.

Colin explains: “It was sad and it was our first Christmas apart since we got married.”

He went on: “We didn’t see each other and I didn’t have access to Facetime when I was in hospital, so I wasn’t able to see her at all while I was there.”

Now, Jane and Colin are determined never to spend another second away from each other.

Colin says: “It was marvellous to be reunited and Jane looked so well.

“I was just glad to be back with her. We’re definitely spending Valentine’s Day together and Oulton Manor has even arranged a special Valentine’s meal for us!”