Couple celebrate 70th anniversary
Platinum milestone for Rhoda and Leonard
A devoted Bridge of Allan couple re-created their wedding day last week – seven decades to the day that they tied the knot.
Rhoda and Leonard Ward, both aged 96, celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary in style at Ashford House care home on Wednesday.
The perfect pair were joined by close family, Stirling Provost Mike Robbins and care home residents and staff as they marked the day with a special three-course meal and reflected on a long and happy marriage.
Guests offered their congratulations and presented Rhoda with a colourful bouquet and a selection of gifts as she sat at the top table with Leonard.
The couple, who are parents to one, grandparents to two and great grandparents to three, met during World War Two when they were both involved in the Civil Defence Service. They were married in Birmingham in 1946.
They spent time in Wales from the 1950s to the 1970s before moving to Westerlea Drive in Bridge of Allan around 40 years ago. Although Leonard still lives there, he often visits Rhoda at Ashford House, Bridge of Allan, where she has resided for three years and they enjoy afternoon tea several times each week.
Leonard, once a keen hillwalker, worked for 12 years as a finance officer at the University of Stirling before retiring, having previously worked with the gas board. Rhoda spent time working as a telephonist before stopping to become a fulltime housewife and look after the family.
Speaking after the big celebration last week, proud daughter Vanessa Berridge, 66, said: “They both had a lovely day. It was like their wedding day all over again – even the weather was the same with sunshine, rain and snow.
“Everyone had a meal and my mum and dad were on the top table. They were presented with various cards and flowers, and there were banners up decorating the lounge. As my mum walked in the room everyone was clapping which was nice.
“After the meal everyone had tea and coffee and they stayed chatting for around an hour. Ashford House did a great job.”
Vanessa, who also lives in Westerlea Drive with her husband John, added: “They both used to enjoy going to the dancing together, and while my dad walked all the Welsh mountains and carried on hillwalking up here [in Scotland], my mum loved knitting.
“Spending time with family is also something they have always enjoyed doing. I feel blessed to have them as parents for the life they have given me and our family.
“I hope they have many happy memories together and more memories to make.
“The love has not diminished between them – my dad still visits my mum for afternoon tea and every Tuesday takes her a rose from their garden.
“They can often be found having an afternoon nap together in the Ashford House lounge.
“They have had a long and happy marriage and the whole family congratulates and thanks them for their love and support over the years.”